Hunger strike of former politically persecuted in Albania (2012)
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Hunger strike of former politically persecuted in Albania is a strike that began on September 21, 2012 in Tirana from 20 former political persecuted during the communist years. The strike began only for economic purposes, as seeking that Albanian government to compensate them for years of suffering in prison (2000 leks per day of imprisonment). [citation needed]
Two strikers, George Ndreca (51 year) and Lirak Bejko (47 years old) set fire to themselves as a sign of protest against the negligence of state structures. According to doctors, Ndreca has suffered burns to 40% of the body including in the respiratory tract, and has been sent to Greece for treatment, while Bejko has been sent to Italy. Meanwhile the strike has passed its 23rd day and strikers are still struggling to receive support from health and humanitarian organizations, as well as religious institutions. Of primary importance is dry blankets, following recent heavy rains.
On October 13, 2012 Albanian American Forum for Democracy organized a manifestation of solidarity in New York, in support of the hunger strikers. Former Councillor of the City of New York and friend of the "Albanian American Society" gave a speech showing solidarity with the hunger strikers and urged participants not to remain silent about their cause.
On October 14, 81 year old Lavdosh Beqo, a dual French/ Albanian citizen, claimed "We will fast to death and will not let the sacrifice of our two friends who set themselves on fire pass in vain,”
As of October 15, 8 hunger strikers remain at the original camp in Tirana, and have pledged to end their lives for their cause. In Shkodra and Elbasan efforts are under way by other ex-political prisoners to join the strike.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Berisha believes that this is a political movement organized by the opposition party, and continues to ignore it.
External links
- Strikers look to religion- Top Channel.
- Albanians in New York show solidarity- Gazeta Tema.
- Proceedings from the hunger strike step by step - Top Channel.
- Artikulli: Albania ex-prisoners stage fire protests over payments në BBC News Transclusion error: {{En}} is only for use in File namespace. Use {{langx|en}} or {{in lang|en}} instead.
- Former Albanian political prisoner sets himself on fire to press authorities over compensation Transclusion error: {{En}} is only for use in File namespace. Use {{langx|en}} or {{in lang|en}} instead.
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