Emigrants in Italy: Either here, or we die They demanded active participation with a hunger strike: We are not content to be alive in Albania Albanian and Italian authorities are discussing the return of the refugees, while a sad calm showed in the refugees' eyes. All night long, around 1,000 undocumented migrants gathered by the police in the Lecce stadium protested until dawn. On the ground and on cardboard and blankets, children, women and the elderly, wrapped in whatever they could, some prayed, some cried, some shouted. During the night, talks continued between the Italian police authorities and Albanian representatives over their repatriation. Some of them began a hunger strike, saying they could no longer return to Albania. "We have nothing to eat, we have no jobs, we have no homes." Some held improvised placards in their hands. By morning the situation remained tense. Some of those gathered were demanding to be dispersed to Italian cities and not sent back. Others hoped for a last-minute decision. The police kept the stadium cordoned off and entrances and exits were strictly controlled. TIRANA — Yesterday more information arrived about the events in Lecce and the protest of Albanian refugees. According to reports, a group of them had gone on a hunger strike to oppose being sent back. Amid shouts, tears and confusion, harsh words were heard against poverty and the lack of hope. Some said they had sold everything for the journey. Others had left children or family members in Albania, hoping to secure work and income. The authorities were trying to identify them and separate them according to age and family situation. Albanian and Italian authorities are discussing the return of the refugees, while a sad calm showed in the refugees' eyes [?]

LEAVING THE WAR TIRANA — The Democratic Party and the government, faced with the exodus and the risk of a social explosion, are trying to impose a forceful solution. They have put forward the idea of blocking departures and introducing emergency measures in the coastal areas. But the situation is severe and the means seem insufficient. In several cities people are anxiously waiting for developments and news of ships setting sail. Yesterday many families who had sold their belongings in order to leave were seen in ports and coastal towns. In Tirana, the political debate is becoming increasingly harsh. Opinion is divided between the need to stop the exodus and the fear that freedom of movement is being violated. Meanwhile, public order structures are tightening controls. The question is whether anti-exodus is a solution or only a postponement of the crisis. Continues on page 2

Tirana withdraws from the League TIRANA — After intense diplomatic discussions, the Albanian government is sending signals that it may withdraw from the Islamic League. Political sources said the issue is being handled as part of the country's new international orientation and the need to clarify its diplomatic profile. Reactions have been mixed. Some welcome it as a break from an unnecessary tie, while others call it a hasty move. In diplomatic circles there is talk of pressure from Western partners. The decision is expected to have political and symbolic consequences. Continues on page 5

FOOTBALL TIRANA — At the FSHF, after the departure of several leaders, moves are being made to appoint new structures. Papadopulli has been chosen to lead and is expected to take up the post of President. The decision has been met with discussion, as the federation is in a turbulent period. Some clubs have expressed reservations, while others are calling for stability and continuity. According to sources, more appointments are expected in the coming days. Continues on page 6

Former chiefs under investigation: Gazidede, Zhuli, Shehu Ngjela: The first closure will be done in two days TIRANA — A series of investigative files have been opened against former high-ranking officials. Among the names mentioned are Gazidede, Zhuli and Shehu. According to statements made yesterday, the investigations concern administrative and criminal responsibilities related to recent developments. Spartak Ngjela declared that within two days the "first closure" of one of the cases is expected. In political circles the news has sparked major debate, while the opposition is demanding full transparency. The photograph is accompanied by the caption: Agim Shehu, Safet Zhulali. Continues on page 7 Agim Shehu Safet Zhulali

Above Nicë: We made our decision BERAT — In Ujë, in the villages of Berat, life goes on amid shortages and hope. Residents speak about the land, about emigration, about the boys who leave and the women who wait. Their stories carry fatigue and dignity. The reportage brings voices from a region trying to keep itself on its feet, while poverty is felt everywhere. The elderly remember better times, the young think about leaving. At the center of the story are everyday life and endurance. Continues on page 7

FIER Smuggling: Police seize two boats with fuel Continues on page 6

TEPELENË Continues on page 6

EUROPE WITH NO CONDITIONS WORK IS NOT PART OF IT THE RESTAURANT IN THE STYLE IN ITALY Address: 5 Stadium Street, PIT House, Tirana.

Musk[...] "Surface" DUGAZ sh.p.k. Address: Office: 81, "Myslym Shyri", Building 45/1 Tel/Fax: +355 42 09227 1 km Highway Tirana - Durrës

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