1997 Rebellion in Albania - Hunger Strike of Students of The University of Vlora

Hunger Strike of Students of The University of Vlora

Students of the University of Vlore began a hunger strike on campus on 20 February. About 50 students join the hunger strike. Their demands were the resignation of the government and the full return of invested money. This strike is considered by some to have been the main driver of the escalation of the situation into armed conflict. On 22 February the Forum for Democracy came out in support of the strike. Students from Gjirokastër and Elbasan came to give their support. They were then driven by the students FRESSH Vlorë to Tirana. In contrast were the students of the University "Luigj Gurakuqi" in Shkodra, who through the Students Union declared: "The students share the pain of the citizens of Vlora in losing money in pyramid schemes, but on the other hand, think that freedom and democracy, homeland and nation have a higher price". On 26 February thousands of people surrounded the building of the University to defend from feared attack by The National Intelligence Service SHIK (Shërbimi Informativ Kombëtar.), The same day a group of strikers requested more medical help, putting in doubt the group of doctors near them. On 27 February in Vlora Shkodra comes the mayor, Bahri Borici of the United Right, in support of the hunger strike. 28 February 1997, will remain a black date in the history of Albania. After strengthening their protection against the building of the University, the rebel forces on the evening of 28 February, without warning attacked SHIK building. In efforts between the rebels and officers of stylish, very few in number, remain killing nine people, six officers and three civilians. The massacre of 28 February marks the start of a 10-day Civil War, and the beginning of anarchy in southern Albania for about a year.