At the rally on the occasion of the first anniversary of the formation of PD- STUDENTS - THE FORERUNNERS OF DEMOCRACY At the rally on the occasion of the first anniversary of the formation of PD- STUDENTS - THE FORERUNNERS OF DEMOCRACY Joana, the heart of the city, Tirana's “Skënderbej” Square, after becoming the site of the rally on the first anniversary of the formation of the Democratic Party. Young men and women, workers and intellectuals, citizens of Tirana and from the districts, with placards, slogans and restrained enthusiasm, filled the square to hear the speech of the leaders of this party. On the podium, a large banner stood out with the words “Down with the communist dictatorship”. The rally opened with the performance of the national anthem. The first speech was delivered by the secretary of the PD, Mr. Eduard Selami, who said, among other things, that this anniversary finds Albania in a difficult economic and political situation, but also with great hope for democratic change. He spoke about the sacrifices of the students and about their role as forerunners of Albanian democracy. Afterwards, representatives of PD branches from various cities also spoke, underlining the need to unite all democratic forces. The rally was followed with great interest by those present and ended with cheers in support of political pluralism and free elections. (Continued on page 2)

Yesterday in Tirana a meeting was held with Mr. Alesandro Creminti, during which issues related to cooperation and the prospects of new relations with Italy were discussed. In the conversation, the importance of political contacts and support for democratic processes in Albania was highlighted. PD officials expressed their determination to expand ties and strengthen bridges of communication with Western partners.

ONE YEAR AFTER THE GREAT EVENT It was the movement that brought pluralism into Albanian political life and opened the way for major social transformations. One year after the events of December, the memory of that period remains alive and continues to inspire citizens. The students, intellectuals and citizens who took the stage in those days gave the country a chance to move toward democracy. The road has not been easy, but faith in freedom and in the future has remained strong. On this anniversary, many voices recall the first emotions of the moral victory against fear and submission. (Continued on page 2)

We are on the threshold of economic flourishing, but the changes to state structures also require a profound review of the relations between power and party leaders at all levels. Returning to the well-known experience of recent years, it is essential to prevent any interference by parties in the state apparatus and in the executive bodies. This is a requirement of the law, but also a need of Albanian democracy. The party must remain in its political and programmatic role, without meddling in the administrative activity of the organs of power. Otherwise, a party closeness is created that distorts democratic life and feeds old practices. (Continued on page 6)

STUDENT - PRESIDENT DUEL The student revolt, demonstrations, and political pluralism in Albania constitute a new challenge for democratic life. The way power responds to the demands of university youth is a real test of the maturity of institutions and of the new democratic standards. Alia and the government have chosen the path of dialogue, but also of political pressure on the student movement. (Continued on page 6)