Alarm in the South: PSD is taking power from us. PS against Fino and Ruka. Resignation in October

The bank escapes privatization. 14 billion lekë seized. The “Cenajs” are asking them for 10 million

. Nano should resign. A political compromise with the fourth estate is in the Government’s interest. But the Government, as it should, does not give it a chance. The indifference shown so far indicates that Nano has taken the fight with the press lightly. Formally, Berisha did not act this way. On the surface, he had declared his friendship with the advocates of freedom of speech in Parliament. The publishers are showing restraint and have escalated their campaign. Yesterday, after Nano’s silence, another step was taken. The publishers met with the chair of the parliamentary economy committee, Anastas Angjeli, who showed himself willing to help find bridges between the Government and the fourth estate. A political compromise was discussed. Compromise is vital for both branches of power. What are the publishers of the daily newspapers asking for? No more and no less than exemption from tax obligations, exemption from VAT. It would not cost the state much, while this relief would guarantee the newspapers’ survival. Someone has said, “just one untaxed smuggled truckload would be enough, perhaps half a truckload.” The comparison is figurative, because newspapers would be the first to denounce failure to clear goods through customs. If Nano intends to impose 22 percent VAT on the press, that amounts to presupposing the death of the newspapers. If he wants to get rid of the media’s drastic opposition, he would do well to find more honorable ways. The state has a duty to ensure the survival of newspapers. Some states create a budget subsidy to help newspapers, but Albanian publishers are showing restraint; their request is within the bounds of economic logic. They are not asking for a subsidy, merely for the removal of tax obligations. Journalists know that things are not easy for the Government. It faces major tasks and major pressures, but what is being asked for is achievable. The Government must reach a consensus with the press; otherwise, its difficulties will grow. A political compromise is needed; otherwise, the consequences will fall on the Government. The newspapers have considered escalating their struggle for survival. The press is already as good as lost. It cannot survive for long under the taxes the government has placed on its shoulders. It is said that even yesterday Nano did not receive the publishers’ proposals—pleas—with enthusiasm. So much the worse for him. The publishers will wait until 15 September, when Angjeli will give his answer. After that, there are all kinds of forms of protest. We believe Nano will not want an opponent on the scale of the press.

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