Bombshell at the Ministry of Public Order: Here is who is linked to the mafia — Page 7 Bombshell at the Ministry of Public Order: Here is who is linked to the mafia Page 7

Although only about three weeks remain until the date of the partial local elections, one gets the impression that the opposition has not fired up all its engines for the final sprint before the finish line on 21 June. In this way, the strengthening of the opposition’s position on the political scene is not being reflected in its election campaign. Apart from a partial agreement between DBSH and “Union for Democracy”, the only activities of an electoral nature have been the DP rallies, sometimes held in cooperation with allies or even trade unions. Nevertheless, given that “the waters have not yet cleared” in the right-wing camp, perhaps an agreement during the runoff phase would have been more appropriate for the DP. Following the political developments of recent months, one can say that the opposition has fallen into the trap of the ruling opponent’s games. Thus, by occupying itself with the months-long saga of “changes” in the government, with contrasts between certain groups or factions within the SP, and by commenting on the friction between the Socialists and their minor allies, the opposition has for a long time somewhat neglected the shortcomings of the current government, which should be the main argument of its election campaign. The same can be said of the latest manoeuvring between the SP and the president concerning the CEC. In this respect, perhaps not without intent, for two weeks running the programme “Sunday Debate” has also turned into a kind of monologue, ignoring the opposition’s participation. The problem is that the opposition has not been able to take advantage by imposing its own game in response to developments in the opposing camp, remaining constantly on the sidelines instead of serving as a catalyst. For example, while condemning the economic policy of the left-wing coalition government, the opposition had no reason to hesitate to find common ground with the SP rank and file, as a group that has also been harmed. Regardless of the number of municipalities or communes being contested, the partial local elections of 21 June are important in another respect. These elections will be a highly significant test, not only for the government but for the opposition itself. Given the situation in the country, it is normally expected that the opposition forces, primarily the DP, will make a considerable showing. But if the results of 21 June do not reflect this, it would clearly compromise the opposition’s future, allowing the left-wing coalition to govern without difficulty. At the very least, early elections would become a more distant prospect. GAVROSH LEVONJA

Lidra Meidani, the president’s wife, will greet the child deputies in the parliament chamber on 1 June

The constitutional commission drafts the articles in Durrës Even in the new draft, the head of state has broad powers. “Can appoint and dismiss ministers as well” The President of the Republic will also have broad powers under the future Constitution. According to the draft prepared yesterday for the chapter concerning the head of state, this institution will continue to play a strong role in running the state. Yesterday, the constitutional commission moved to the city of Durrës to continue putting the articles of the state’s fundamental law on paper. P. 3

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Measures to prevent conflict in Kosovo NATO in Albania and Macedonia P. 5

Burrel: They were investigating illegal ferrochrome trafficking Police officers, a contract killing P. 6

The Prosecutor’s Office closes investigation into Radio Kontakt journalist “Vokshi did not incite a revolt” P. 6

“Candidates” for Guinea, one of the “10 brothers” Kosovar in Tirana, dozens of frauds P. 6

Yesterday, an extraordinary story: wins 10 million with 10 lekë Bingo gives an orphan a mother P. 10

Five more months for Albanian refugees Greece extends legalization P. 11