Citizens are gathering in front of the Prime Minister’s Office in Tirana to protest the government’s decision to ban the social media platform TikTok. The protest was called by Democratic Party leader Sali Berisha, who urged young people to oppose the ban.
State Police have deployed significant security measures to manage the demonstration, with dozens of officers stationed along “Dëshmorët e Kombit” Boulevard. Traffic in the area has been restricted.
Berisha has framed the ban as an act of censorship by Prime Minister Edi Rama, rallying young people to take a stand. “Edi Rama is censoring TikTok, the most modern communication tool today, purely out of intolerance. All students, high schoolers, and young people must resist this decision. On March 12, TikTok should remain on their phones. The government must face consequences for this massive act of repression. Let’s protest together for freedom of speech tomorrow at 19:00 in Skanderbeg Square,” he declared.
The government has justified the ban on grounds of national security and data privacy concerns, aligning with similar restrictions imposed in other countries. However, critics argue it is an excessive measure that suppresses digital freedom.
The protest is expected to draw a large turnout, with authorities on high alert to prevent possible unrest.
