FLASH
Shkruar nga Pamfleti
From Dritan Goxhaj to Ikballe Huduti, the government is shifting the debate from the demands of the protest to the individuals who support it. In this context, the new photo of the prime minister with a flamingo preening its feathers raises questions about its symbolism.
The civic protest has entered its 25th day, but in parallel, another battle seems to be taking place: that of controlling the narrative.
In recent days, the government and Prime Minister Edi Rama himself have intensified attacks on public figures who have supported the protests. Activist Dritan Goxhaj has been placed at the center of a campaign of accusations and public attacks, while today the authorities announced the "non grata" declaration of Iqballe Huduti, who has been publicly linked to the protests.
At the same time, the prime minister himself has published posts on social media attacking and identifying by name people who, according to him, are behind the protest or supporting it.
In this political climate, the change of Edi Rama's Facebook profile picture has also attracted attention. The Prime Minister has chosen a flamingo, the bird that has now become a symbol of the protest launched to protect Zvernec. But the flamingo is not shown in flight or in its natural habitat. It is shown preening its feathers.
This detail has prompted political interpretations. If the flamingo is a symbol of protest, then a flamingo preening its feathers could be read as a metaphor for a process of "cleansing." Not necessarily of the bird, but of the very movement it symbolizes.
This is also read in light of the developments of recent days, where the focus of government communication has shifted from the demands of the protesters to the identity of those participating in or supporting the protest. Attacks on certain figures, the publication of names and claims of foreign influence create the impression of a strategy that aims to present the protest as infiltrated by individuals or groups that do not represent the civic revolt.
From this perspective, the photo can be interpreted as a political message: that the government intends to regain control over the symbol of protest and "purge" it of those it considers undesirable elements. And in short, finding an alibi in the end.
It could also be a message to his own people that it's time for a cleansing cycle. Historically, whenever Ram has found himself in difficulty, he has resorted to "sacrifice." Moreover, the cover photo features some flamingos getting ready to fly.
The Prime Minister himself is known for his messages through photos and today's photo seems to be a clear message. We'll wait and see. / Pamphlet
Është si puna e maces, që vetë pastrohet, bile vet pastron edhe birën e bythës.