Citizens from municipalities affected by Albania’s proposed territorial reform gathered outside Parliament on Thursday to protest plans to merge local government units.

Protesters voiced opposition to the proposed changes and called for the preservation of their municipalities. Among the slogans heard during the demonstration were “Belsh, not a neighborhood of Elbasan!” and “Divjaka, a municipality!”

Another slogan heard from the crowd was “Albania for Albanians, not for those in power.”

The protesters remained outside Parliament as the demonstration continued, while metal barriers and a significant police presence were deployed in the surrounding area.

The proposed territorial reform has prompted opposition from residents of municipalities that could be affected by changes to the current local government structure.