The whole issue concerns changing the structure of government, although it was accompanied by the prime minister’s [unclear] of the [unclear] legislator, who was not present in Parliament to defend the new formula; it can in no way be a challenge to the status quo in governance. The Nano cabinet created a new formula so that it could compete more effectively against its rivals and better protect its assets and friends. Specifically, the new formula foreshadows the subjugation of a series of political groupings, which would shatter the false image of “unity.” Yesterday Brokaj accused the head of government of allowing the Mafia to infiltrate the government, while Ceka reminded Nano that, in practice, the way the government is run does not correspond to that of the democratic countries of the world. This is enough to keep the battlefields of rivalry open. The chief arbiter of politics remains [text incomplete]. * Continued on page 3

The auction of VEFA’s properties begins. The magic island “Iliria” for just $50,000, a helicopter for $6,000. Alimuçaj seeks refuge in Helsinki. The Socialist machine against the President. Ruçi: We will not ask Meidani

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Shkodra together with Drenica, for Kosovo Page 7 The crisis in Kosovo, a danger for the Balkans Page 11

Photo: R. Taslo

TIRANA—Albanian institutions are being “pushed aside” by the will to challenge. Parliament’s decision on the new structure of the Government remains ineffective. For the first time, all three main institutions of the Albanian state have become entangled in such a “battle” over powers, convictions and signatures. Yesterday Meidani refused to sign the decision passed by Parliament in the morning concerning the new structure of the Nano government. Article 2 of the bill approved yesterday by a majority of votes stipulated that “the law enters into force immediately.” Yesterday the Socialists insisted that the term “immediately” should not be interpreted, as usual, to mean “15 days after publication in the Official Gazette,” but rather “on 15 April.” Nevertheless, Meidani did not sign yesterday. Consequently, the law has not entered into force. The Constitutional Court is absent, so no balance can be established. Anyone may decide to act as they see fit. Late last night, Parliamentary Speaker Gjinushi held a “one-on-one” meeting with the head of state. By not signing the law on the structure of Nano 4, Meidani has “signed” the crisis. The only possible compromise may be a signature by Meidani that takes retroactive effect. Socialist Ruçi said yesterday at Continued on page 4

Yesterday the chairman of the Albanian Republican Party, Fatmir Mediu, left for Italy at the invitation of the chairman of “Forza Italia,” Silvio Berlusconi. The invitation from the neighbouring country reads: Silvio Berlusconi has the honour of inviting the chairman of the PRSH, Fatmir Mediu, to the First National Congress of “Forza Italia.” The Congress will meet in Milan from 16 to 18 April 1998. Mr Mediu’s visit continues the increasingly intensive contacts and ties that the PRSH is building with the parties and structures of the European right. On this trip, the chairman of the Albanian Republicans is accompanied by the member of the Political Executive and spokesperson for the PRSH, Mr Muhamedali Veli.

Godo: They gave us not even three hours; you can’t form a government with a gun to your head Lino signs “Nano 4” Ceka to Nano: You are a coward Page 3 Secret meetings last night at the Presidency Milo and Meta clash PR, protests against the death penalty Page 4 Brojka’s revenge Sherif’s latest failure: Italians send seasonal workers back “Silva”, from Italy to Turkey Pages 8–9 Government deceives discharged military personnel The Buna yields three corpses 67 million stolen from the company Prosecutor’s Office investigates Sala’s presidency Page 2