Interior Minister Ervin Demo has once again responded to the protests of recent days, stressing that the right to protest is guaranteed by the Constitution and that the State Police have a duty to ensure demonstrations take place peacefully.
Demo emphasised that police intervention will only take place when necessary and in accordance with the law to prevent acts of violence, while urging protesters to address their concerns and demands through dialogue.
He also stressed that the government remains open to communication.
Full statement:
The right to protest is guaranteed by the Constitution, and the State Police have a duty to respect and protect that right.
The State Police will never be the instigator of confrontations with protesters. Their duty is to ensure that protests take place peacefully and to maintain public order and the safety of every citizen.
Police intervention will only take place when necessary and lawful to prevent or stop acts of violence, to protect lives, police officers, citizens, and public and private property, always in accordance with the principle of proportionality.
Protesting is a democratic right. Violence is not, and cannot be, part of it.
The government remains open and ready for dialogue with protesters at any time and on any concern or demand they wish to raise. We believe that dialogue, listening and direct communication are the way to address concerns and find solutions. No door is closed to dialogue, and no act of violence can replace it.
Responsibility for acts of violence is individual. No one can hide behind the right to protest to justify breaking the law. Anyone who commits unlawful acts will be held accountable under the law, without exception.
We will equally protect the right to protest, the safety of citizens and the authority of the law.
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