There is no other solution for long-term political and economic stability

BY GAVROSH LEVONJA Yesterday it was learned that Milošević is making major changes to the government by bringing his political opponents into the cabinet, including Vuk Drashkoviç, whom he had imprisoned in 1993. The point here is not to discuss the effects such a move might have on recent developments in Kosovo, chiefly the neutralization of the actions of the international community, or on the domestic situation in Yugoslavia. What matters in this regard is the moment at which Milošević took such a step. It is well known that today’s Yugoslavia, and Serbia in particular, as a result of the political course pursued since the beginning of the 1990s, has incurred the hostility of the international community and, above all, is suffering the consequences of comprehensive isolation. Thus Yugoslavia, once closer to the West than any other Eastern country, now has all the bridges connecting it to Western institutions closed. In addition, Serbia is exposed to the risk of a NATO response as punishment for the political course pursued in Kosovo, similar to that pursued a few years earlier in Bosnia and other Bosnias of the former Yugoslav space. Albania, meanwhile, is currently in a far less enviable state. The country has still not recovered from the severe consequences of the chaos that followed the total collapse of the state two years ago. Specifically, whether in the economy, public order, or other matters of vital importance, our country faces challenges that cannot in any way be resolved without cooperation between the government and the opposition, engaging the latter’s full potential in the service of the country. If until recently the country sank into a hopeless situation, this was also the result of a principled and absurd struggle between the government and the opposition. Indeed, this was perhaps the main factor that plunged the country into the chaos of two years ago or created the sad precedent of 14 September last year. Given the critical moment the country is facing, as well as developments in Kosovo, cooperation between government and opposition is an immediate necessity. The Majko-Berisha meeting a month ago did, in fact, raise some hope for establishing dialogue between government and opposition. But it seems Albanian politics has still not reached the level at which politics can be the common ground, despite opposing camps. Yet, as every experience has shown, the best way to bring about such cooperation is to unite their energies in a joint government. This is because, in this way, a solution could be found that would get the country out of the mire.

PD leader Berisha being interviewed by journalists yesterday. Photo: LEONARD FILOPATI

The government cabinet is in disarray. There is not even a Secretary-General Government: the conflicts never end Disputes have been reported between Majko-Meta, Majko-Koçi, Meta-Angjeli, Meta-Koçi, Meta-Bufi, Milo-Meta-Lakror(i), Majko-Meksi Page 32 The government is divided. At present, none of the ministers is able to coordinate their work, thus causing a series of conflicts that have now become highly visible. Prime Minister Majko himself has had a conflict with his deputy, Meta.

Politics We are ready to face war Statement by the parliamentary parties of the Republic of Albania page 5

“I am determined to restore order, even if someone wants me to fail...” Last night the Minister of Public Order dismissed five police officers at Rinas, as well as three road-traffic chiefs in several districts. It is also understood that within a few days he will make several changes to police directors, although he only proposes these changes, while appointments are made by Majko. Two police directors in the North and three in the South are being considered. In recent days he has personally inspected police stations in the districts, looking into the problems and concerns of residents. In recent days the police have been at the center of criticism from part of the government staff, criticism perhaps made out of petty interests in order to appoint their own people to key smuggling points. Koçi tells “KJ”: “I am determined to put public order completely right, even if someone wants me to fail. I will not back down in the face of the problems that have arisen.”

Last night, Milošević brings the opposition into government to massacre Kosovo, while in Albania the need remains to unite forces in a coalition government

Wishes all Muslim believers a happy Eid al-Fitr