A spokesperson for the US embassy in Tirana told Euronews Albania that they were appalled by the physical attack on Sali Berisha.

An embassy spokesperson said: “We are appalled by the physical assault today on a member of parliament and expect authorities to fully investigate the incident. No one should be attacked for exercising freedom of speech in accordance with the law.

THE INCIDENT:

Gerti Shehu, 31 years old, attacked the leader of the DP Sali Berisha at noon on Tuesday, while the latter was marching towards the boulevard “Dëshmoret e Kombit” to participate in the protest.

The 31-year-old punched Berisha in the face, making him bleed.

He was immediately detained by Berisha’s bodyguards and in the meantime was assaulted by DP supporters and sympathizers.

The 31-year-old was escorted by the police and is currently receiving treatment at the Trauma hospital, as he has facial injuries and a fractured nose.

Officers have tried twice to interrogate the young man, but due to his health condition, he has not given any evidence so far. It is suspected that the 31-year-old suffers from mental health problems. Both Berisha and Meta have accused Rama of the incident.