The Italian people are following carefully, sometimes with anxiety and sometimes with hope, the developments taking place in Albania. Last Saturday they were deeply alarmed by the news of the killing of four Albanian citizens in Shkodra. On Monday they rejoiced at the peaceful success of the political and administrative elections. On Thursday they were again shaken by the news of the death of a young Italian, who had been working in a health center. That is why, with great willingness and determination, they follow with particular respect the events in the neighboring country, want to understand better what is happening there, and want to help more effectively the Albanian people, who are moving resolutely along the difficult road of democracy. The developments of these days show that the Albanian people have not given up their desire for freedom, for economic and social development, and for integration into Europe. But these developments also show how great the difficulties are that they face. The consequences of a rotten and failed system are still strongly felt in Albania, leaving behind a devastated economy, paralyzed institutions, and a mentality of fear and submission. This heavy inheritance cannot disappear in a single day. It requires wisdom, patience, and courage. At this delicate moment, the responsibility of the political class and of the state institutions is very great. Every ill-considered action, every provocation, every clumsy use of state authority can have serious consequences. Albania needs calm, law, clear elections, and an administration that serves the citizens, not the old interests of the communist nomenklatura. The recent events have shown that the presidents of communism, regardless of new names or formulations, remain prisoners of the old mentality. They hesitate to break away from yesterday’s practices, fear true pluralism, and try to keep democratic processes under control. But the age of monopoly is over. The people’s hopes can no longer be drowned out with orders, bureaucracy, and propaganda. Democracy cannot be built in half measures. It requires transparency, political honesty, and respect for the free vote. Albania will move forward only if it is supported by the healthy energies of society, by youth, by intellectuals, and by those citizens who want to live with dignity and in peace. On this road, the solidarity of European friends is important, but the decisive factor remains the will of Albanians themselves. They must know how to distinguish between genuine reform and the old communist disguise. Only in this way will their sacrifices not be in vain.

In an atmosphere charged with emotion, the citizens of Shkodra held a popular rally in which they spoke out against violence and in defense of democracy. The participants demanded that the recent events be clarified and that those responsible be punished. Speakers stressed that the city of Shkodra has given clear proof of political maturity and of its determination not to turn back. They called for state institutions not to be used against citizens and for freedom of political organization to be guaranteed. The rally was held without incident and ended with calls for civic unity and for the continuation of democratic reforms. Photo: Vilma Kaba

27-28 SEPTEMBER NATIONAL CONFERENCE... KAVAJË On Thursday, 10 September, the large hall of the tourist hotel “Iliria” was packed with members of the Kavajë branch of the Democratic Party and of F.P.R.SH, communists and democrats. In his speech, Mr. Xhemal Osmani, secretary of the Democratic Party branch, said that these conferences are being expanded in order to bring before the leadership forum the problems that concern the party branches. He emphasized the importance of organizing the branches and expanding the party base throughout the area. In the discussions, concerns were raised about the economic situation, shortages in the market, and the need for an honest administration. The importance of the participation of young people and women in the leadership structures was underscored. ( to be continued on page 5 )

These days, Dom Zef Mirdita made a visit to the cathedral in the city of Shkodra. During his stay he met with believers and representatives of the clergy, expressing joy at the revival of religious life in Albania. He praised the resilience of the Catholic clergy and the sacrifices made over the years. The visit was welcomed by citizens and was seen as an event of spiritual and national importance.

STATEMENT BY THE STEERING COMMITTEE OF THE DEMOCRATIC PARTY The Democratic Party, as the initiator and supporter of all opposition parties, considered it appropriate to make a statement regarding the vote held on Monday of this week for granting the mandate for President of the country to Mr. Ramiz Alia, a scandalous election in every dimension, which has placed Albania in an extreme political and social disequilibrium. At the beginning of this week, the assembly of deputies considered it appropriate to hold a “special” session to cast their vote in favor of Mr. Ramiz Alia, while the country was in conditions of extreme political tension, caused by the killings in Shkodra and by the general insecurity that has engulfed the country. ( to be continued on page 2 )

Interview of the Deputy Minister of Agriculture, doc. Koco Koka, is a collaborator of R.D. newspaper Mr. Petratin Rama. The new experience created in several areas of the country and the need to organize agricultural production better require a reorganization of the NPDs, so that the economic reform can be implemented more effectively. According to agricultural specialists, this will create conditions for increasing yields and encouraging farmers’ interest. The interview emphasizes that the process should be accompanied by technical support, supplies, and legal clarity regarding land ownership. ( to be continued on page 2 )