On 16 October - Freedom Day against totalitarianism: The student cultural-political march for the toppling of Stalin’s statue, demonstration... The tradition of cultural-political marches organized within the framework of protests against totalitarianism was continued the day before yesterday by students from the University of Tirana. Holding banners in their hands, bearing a series of demands and slogans, they marched through the main streets of the capital, heading toward the square in front of the University, where the rally concluded. The action was organized on the occasion of Freedom Day against totalitarianism, which students have baptized with the name of the toppling of Stalin’s statue in the “Studenti” settlement. Speaking before the demonstrators, the chairman of the Initiating Commission of the Student Council, Azem Hajdari, said among other things that “...the square in front of the University of Tirana, the garden, the main boulevard of the capital and the center of Tirana, one year ago were covered with red flags. This year we can see that they are being covered by roses, multicolored flowers and music”. He described the march as a manifestation against totalitarianism, a protest against misery, violence, chauvinism and dogma. “This protest – he continued – is taking place at a time when Albania is going through the most difficult days in its history. The Albanian people are facing the lack of freedom, poverty, unemployment and insecurity of life.” Later, other speakers focused attention on the events of 20 February 1991, on political pluralism, on the need to break with the past and on the need for a free and democratic society. During the rally, slogans were shouted and songs were sung. The students demanded respect for human rights and the implementation of democratic reforms. The rally ended peacefully. (“Demokracia”, no. 16/10/91)

The whole nation is waiting. Albania is facing major challenges and a deep economic and political crisis. In this situation, waiting and hesitation cannot replace action. Responsibility, determination and civic courage are needed. The people are waiting for concrete solutions for supply, employment, order and the guarantee of democratic freedoms. The new institutions must win the trust of citizens not with words, but with deeds. This is the moment to break out of apathy and take on the burden of change. We do not have time to wait.

Requesting clarifications from Dr. S. ...[?] regarding his statements for the newspaper “RD”, the publisher of the magazine “AIDELLO” ...[?] (“Continues on page 2”) 30 October 1991 Masoni Archive Patriot

AFTER THE MEETINGS OF DR. BULLCARI At the beginning of these days I was in the district of Puka, Kosovo and Tropoja, where I saw folk costumes and beautiful traditions. I think that the perspective of our country is closely linked to democracy and to the participation of citizens in public life. We all must contribute to building a state governed by law, to respecting private property and to creating a market economy. Our people need hope and a clear European orientation. Democracy is not just a word; it is a way of life and a shared responsibility. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sali Berisha