Prime Minister Edi Rama reacted today to the problematic situation that has developed in Vlora over the past four days, during which the city has experienced a water shortage crisis. The lack of water has been accompanied by protests and unrest, even escalating into physical clashes between citizens and the police, who intervened near public institutions.

In a post on “X,” Rama stated that the serious defect dates back to the years 2009–2010 and is linked to an installation that, according to him, was carried out outside of proper standards. The Prime Minister further emphasized that workers are continuing their tireless efforts in this operation, which he described as extremely difficult. He concluded with irony, saying that this situation is the result of the “evil eye,” after all the good years that, according to him, Vlora has experienced.

Rama’s statement:

New hydraulic parts for repairing the serious defect in Vlora’s water supply system are on their way from Istanbul Airport to arrive today. Back in 2009–2010, hydraulic components were installed that did not meet standards, and they can no longer withstand the water pressure; as a result, the pipeline burst…

Respect for the tireless work of the Vlora water utility workers who, under the leadership of the Director General of the National Water Supply and Sewerage Agency, the well-known engineer Flauers Shoshi, who has been at the head of this difficult operation for several days and nights, are doing the impossible to close this open wound in the body of Vlora—caused by an old mine from a dark time for the city.

To my fellow citizens of Vlora, I offer my apologies for this undeserved ordeal, and as our grandmothers used to say, the evil eye has finally burst after all these good years for Vlora. And those who wish harm upon Vlora will receive only harm in return.