Draft program: discussion and vote today. Gjimushi-Lino: A constitution soon, and by referendum. PD still absent from Parliament

By Gavrosh Levonja Like all the programs presented by various governments at the start of their term, the program presented yesterday to Parliament by Prime Minister Fatos Nano was, in broad terms, hopeful. It promised not only a swift escape from the abyss, but also a revival in every field and a rosy future for Albania and the Albanians. The spirit running through the new Prime Minister’s program was one of tolerance, understanding, cooperation and integration—all of which lead to the much-desired national reconciliation, also sought by the international community. Although Mr. Nano spoke out against analyses aimed at identifying the factors and causes of the crisis, the program presented yesterday clearly reflected a thorough analysis of the causes that led to the failure of Berisha’s policies, above all those of an economic nature. In fact, the program was marked by an effort to move away from everything that had fostered the rise of negative phenomena over the past six years. Thus, it envisages measures against unemployment, corruption and crime, and against the previous administration’s inability to attract investment or manage it efficiently. “Nano 3” also addresses such issues as the rule of law, constitutional and legal foundations, and a reformed public administration—things Berisha also promised a few years ago, but everything was submerged in a sea of corruption and incompetence among the leadership he had appointed. Starting from the urgent need to restore law and order in Albania, without which none of the objectives set out in the program can be achieved, Mr. Nano places it above all else. Nevertheless, despite the realism that runs through almost the entire program, optimistic words and projections alone are not enough. Programs have been presented to Albanians and promises made before, but they have always ended up disappointed. At the very least, their experience of the years of PD rule has taught them that implementing a program matters more than having an attractive one. It remains to be seen how committed the leaders at the various levels of government will be to carrying it out effectively, starting with Nano’s closest associates, since there is always the danger that it will turn into a demagogic essay. There is no doubt that the program presented by Mr. Nano will receive a vote of confidence from the Parliament dominated by his Socialists. But more important than the vote of the Albanian Parliament, given the vital importance of support and assistance from abroad, is the vote of confidence from the international community. After the Albanian government returns from the Rome meeting, the prelude to the donors’ conference in October, the program’s true worth—and that of Prime Minister Nano—will become clear. Perhaps the government will be put to the test in Italy. The key demands will concern law and order and the country’s stability. If those are met, the government’s program, approved “de jure” by the MPs, will be approved “de facto” only if it fares well in Rome.

Photo REUTERS

He riddled the blue uniforms with bullets Page 9

The Presidium and parliamentary groups decide Page 13

Ministry of Finance against the illegal market Page 7

The new Prime Minister presents the program to Parliament: “Let us begin with law and order and security.” Special focus on the pyramid-scheme money