The story of the Kateri i Radës returns, wrapped in pain WHY SO MUCH SILENCE? Today a memorial ceremony for the 80 victims of the tragedy VLORË The hope of the victims’ families has not died out. At least a promise is now coming from the tragedy commission. They say the file is ready. According to the actions of the Brindisi Prosecutor’s Office, the trial date for the Italian captain of the warship “Sibilla,” who caused the tragedy of 28 March last year, is expected to be set in the first days of April. It is believed that the tragedy of the “Kateri i Radës,” in which 83 people lost their lives, will not be buried under the silence of the Italian authorities. It has even been reported that an investigative commission in Vlora is also being considered. Family members, local government representatives and many citizens are expected to take part in today’s ceremony. On the evening of 28 March 1997, the Albanian vessel “Kateri i Radës,” which had set off from Vlora with hundreds of emigrants heading to Italy, collided in the Strait of Otranto with the Italian corvette “Sibilla.” The tragic toll was 83 dead, dozens missing and injured. One year later, family members continue to demand justice and clarification of responsibilities. No a lbania [?] The final lesson. Inspectors hold currency (photo: Robert P. Saba)

Cars are available to transport children, but there is no money for teachers. Funds for schools and municipalities are lacking in circulation. The low level of revenue collection and the failure to meet the budget are causing service suspensions. Officials admit that the situation remains serious. Temporary measures have been put in place to keep minimal services alive. Payments to suppliers have been postponed, while investments have been frozen. If there is no quick intervention, many sectors will be directly affected. On page 2

The old left is increasingly distant The big departures, why are Ceka, Selami, Meksi leaving... TIRANË - As soon as the party’s internal elections end, all eyes turn to Berisha. It is now clear that he is drawing up a new PD, with his allies, his own people and a new strategy. At the top are changes in the leadership structures, but not only that. Those who know Berisha closely say that he will continue with internal purges. This is why the departures of well-known figures such as Ceka, Selami and Meksi are being read as signs of a new era. Opposite him remains an old left that is failing to create a convincing alternative. On page 3 Sali Berisha

Confusion in the exchange markets TIRANË - Counterfeiting banknotes and sharp exchange-rate fluctuations have created an atmosphere of uncertainty. Currency exchangers say that counterfeit dollars are circulating, while citizens are losing their savings due to the lack of control. Investigators suspect organized networks that profit from panic and the public’s ignorance. On page 4

Portrait of an unknown man: The Deputy Prosecutor of Tirana Justice shakes up the system: Here is how the inspection will be carried out TIRANË - Through meetings, reports and orders, the structures have been set in motion for a new inspection within the justice bodies. The Deputy Prosecutor of Tirana is expected to play a key role in this process, which aims to identify violations, delays and a lack of professionalism. Sources close to the institution speak of a thorough review of files and procedures. On page 4

DURRËS - The coastal city will have a difficult summer, but the authorities promise interventions in infrastructure, cleaning and the return of services. Meanwhile many neighborhoods continue to suffer from shortages of water and electricity. The municipality hopes that the tourist season will save the local economy. On page 12

GAZETA Cigars Makina e Borkës 17 thousand dollars On page 5 GAZETA Tel. Goca Trade unions: break out into the streets On page 1 Computer courses For programs. Windows 95/NT trading as well as Word, Excel, Access in English. Call the number 042/ 30880 Advertisements, here is how much singers earn CEREBRA ME I STRENJTI SL.A.V. KONSTRUKSION SH.P.K. Super of Albanian production MOBY - EXPRESS Tirana, 11-12 M. Mjeda St., Vlora TREVISO - VERONA AUTO - EXPRESS Tvemaaion Studenti Grand mobilier Professionla For programs. “Qemal Stafa” Street, No. 184 Tel. 042/ 30880 INDUSTRIAL From 1 March Mobili “ALAX” serves distributors in Vlora (babia filomoni Trupës) Tel. 042/355 97 - 030 2021 - 294