Police, protesters clash in Pristina

PRISTINA - Anti-government protesters clashed with police in Pristina on Tuesday and were dispersed with tear gas and water cannons.

The protests were a continuation of Saturday's demonstrations - also marred by clashes - during which ethnic Albanian protesters demanded the dismissal of Aleksandar Jablanovic, Kosovo's minister for return and communities, and a law converting Trepca Mines into a public enterprise that would be controlled by Pristina.

There are dozens of injured on both sides, Tanjug's reporter said.

Self-Determination leader Albin Kurti - who was reportedly injured - Alliance for the Future of Kosovo leader Ramus Haradinaj and Initiative for Kosovo leader Fatmir Limaj also took part in the protests.

The protesters carried Albanian flags and banners with slogans such as "Jablanovic out," "Trepca is ours," "Taci is a thief," "Isa is playing to Serbia's tune," "There is no state with thieves," and "Down with the government."

Kosovo government spokesman Arban Abrasi told Radio Kosovo that the demonstrations had a political connotation and that they had nothing to do with the demands set out.

Donika Kada, the Alliance for the Future of Kosovo whip in the Kosovo assembly, said that the protests will continue until the demands are met, adding that the protesters will seek Prime Minister Isa Mustafa's dismissal should he fail to take measures.

AP Photo/Visar Kryeziu