Today, the majority of the people, especially those who at a critical moment saw their only salvation in the opposition press, in the bold free word, will remember with respect the first opposition newspaper “Rilindja Demokratike” and those who had the courage to publish it. It is hard to say briefly everything this newspaper has represented for the democratic movement and for Albania in these years. It was the first free voice against dictatorship, a tribune of democratic forces and a hope for thousands upon thousands of people. In those first days, when the country was still under the shadow of fear and totalitarian control, an independent newspaper seemed like a miracle. Nevertheless, “Rilindja Demokratike” came out and spoke openly. It reflected the positions of the Democratic Party, explained its program, encouraged the student protests, the intellectuals and the people who demanded political pluralism, free elections and human rights. Its pages published documents, analyses, chronicles, polemics and testimonies that had previously been unimaginable. It denounced the violence, the deceit and the propaganda of the regime. At the same time, it became a new school of journalism and a means of organization for the opposition throughout the country. Today, one year after the publication of the first issue, this newspaper remains a symbol of free speech and civic responsibility. It has won the readers’ trust not only because it spoke difficult truths, but also because it stood by the people in the hardest days. The anniversary of “Rilindja Demokratike” is an occasion to honor the contribution of all those who wrote, printed, distributed and defended the newspaper. It is also a call for the freedom won with so much effort not to be violated again. Democratic Albania still needs a free, responsible and courageous press.

Thoughts and respect to Mr. Sali Berisha — — I THINK MR. SALI BERISHA DESERVES RESPECT — The room was filled with emotion, with continuous applause and even laughter. Many of those present stated that the upcoming elections would be a decisive test for the country’s future. In this discussion it was emphasized that people do not vote for the Socialist Party because it remains tied to the past, to the old mentality and to responsibility for the grave economic and social situation. It was said that citizens need trust, real change and leadership that speaks openly. In this context, the name of Mr. Sali Berisha was mentioned with respect, as the speakers said he has managed to represent the democratic aspirations of the people and to inspire hope. The participants underlined that the Socialist Party tries to present itself as reformed, but it still has not convinced the majority of Albanians. For this reason, according to them, the vote does not go to it, but to the forces that offer a clear break with the past and a credible program for the future.

One year since the first issue of «RD» I remember that there are many moments in a person’s life when one feels that certain parts of one’s life have become events, or moments of such a kind that they will later be remembered for a long time. One such occasion was the publication of the first issue of the newspaper «Rilindja Demokratike», on 5 January 1991. At that time, a special atmosphere could be felt in Tirana. The first days of pluralism had brought curiosity, fear, hope and an inexplicable feverishness. In the offices where the newspaper was being prepared, people worked with rare energy. Everyone knew that what was being done was not just a newspaper, but a major civic and political act. Students, intellectuals, workers and ordinary people came to the editorial offices bringing news, articles, opinions, complaints and greetings. Some brought only a kind word. Others wanted to know when the next issue would come out. The tension was constant, but so was the joy. Very quickly, the newspaper became a tribune where people read things they had never read before. Denunciations, commentaries, reports and appeals were published there, giving courage to the democratic movement. Every issue was eagerly awaited. Distribution often took place under difficult conditions, but the newspaper reached readers’ hands. Today, after one year, the memory of those days remains vivid. «RD» is not just the name of a newspaper, but a symbol of courage, free speech and the belief that Albania can become different. (continued on page 5)

THE YEAR OF HOPE AND TRUST The past year (1991) was for everyone an unusual year filled with major events. For Albanians it will remain as the year when fear began to break and when the free word started to be heard more strongly. The political changes, the student movement, the birth of pluralism and the confrontation with the difficulties of the transition gave this year a special weight. Many people began that year with doubt, but ended it with hope. It became clear that change does not come immediately and that democracy requires patience, effort and civic responsibility. Nevertheless, the belief that Albania can become a free and European country grew significantly. In this sense, 1992 is expected to be a decisive year. It must be the year of responsibility, work, organization and trust in democratic institutions. Only in this way will the hope that was born not be extinguished, but instead turn into a force for building a better future.

GREETING FROM THE NEWSPAPER «REPUBLIKA» Our newspaper sends its congratulations and greetings on the occasion of the first anniversary of the appearance of «Rilindja Demokratike». We have followed closely the path of this newspaper, its role in affirming free speech and democratic thought in Albania. At a difficult time for the independent press, «Rilindja Demokratike» managed to become an important voice of the opposition and a tribune for citizens who demanded change. We wish its staff continued success and a long life in the service of democracy.

KORÇË In the Korçë district the situation appears calm, while political discussions continue to be numerous. In several enterprises and institutions, meetings have been held with citizens on issues of elections, supplies and public order. MALIQ Residents express concern about the shortages of certain consumer goods and delays in distribution. On the other hand, there is a noticeable increase in interest in the activities of political forces in the area. TIRANA In the capital, during the last few days, meetings and gatherings of a political and social nature have been held. Citizens express interest in the progress of reforms and in the guarantee of order and security.

PING-PONG A disgusting political crime of the Socialist Party IN RECENT TIMES THERE HAS BEEN A ROW AMONG SOCIALISTS AND ALBANIAN SOCIALISTS OVER THE MASS AWARD FOR EMIGRANTS FROM GREECE, PANDETER SOCIALISTS SEEK TO THE EMIGRANTS ORGANIZED BY THE PS AZEM HAJDARI A CRY FROM THE FAMILIES OF THE VICTIMS OF HUNSË-PARËSIT Who needs the new murders in Albania To seize power at any cost?