The speech of Mr. Pjetër Arbnori in the National Council of the PD Dear friends, this is one of the most vital and most important sessions of the National Council of the Democratic Party. For the first time we will examine a document on the basis of which we must move on to a new stage of organization and action. It may be said that this is the final step in the institutionalization of our party. This document very well reflects the democratic mechanism according to which the forums of our party will function. In these elections we are entering a new era, but there is one difficulty, the difficulty of finding the right compromise between representative democracy and direct democracy. By enshrining the separation of spheres of competence according to the hierarchy of the party bodies, we would create the possibility for them to function normally, rather than transforming our party into a permanent conference in which everyone would speak and do politics as they pleased. So, on the basis of clearly defined powers, each forum can make independent decisions. On that basis, on the basis of the role of the center in the party and the responsibilities of the leadership and the chairman, everyone can judge how much has been done and how much has not. Often in our activity we have to make important decisions. In certain situations the National Council cannot meet constantly, and even less so the National Assembly. This state of affairs is not only the result of difficult communication conditions, but also of the need to preserve political flexibility. Therefore we must strengthen the mechanisms of representation, ensuring that decisions are at once democratic and effective. One of the most important issues remains the selection of cadres, their political and moral responsibility, as well as their relationship with the grassroots. On this point we must be more rigorous, but not bureaucratic. We cannot have a democratic party without clear rules and without everyone respecting them. We are the force that brought pluralism and we have the duty to defend it with democratic means. (continued on page 8)

Yesterday's government, still not freed from the practices of the past, is leaving citizens to survive with great difficulty. In many sectors there is uncertainty, lack of direction and immature decisions. Democracy cannot be measured by declarations alone, but by the ability to create order, legality and the means of living for the majority. If the state's mechanisms remain sluggish and closed, reform will move forward slowly. That is why responsibility, transparency and social sensitivity are required. The market cannot be left without rules, but private initiative should also not be hindered by bureaucracy. Citizens expect concrete solutions, not just promises. (continued on page 8)

THE NEW WORLD, WATER AND MODERN-WORK? IN STPA, IN THE FINAL KONU-SET THE NEW WORLD, WATER AND MODERN- WORK? IN STPA, IN THE FINAL KONU-SET This situation is a thin thread with trembling hands, where the hope for change collides with old habits. In today's debates about the political future, one often hears the question of what distinguishes the democrat from the former communist, especially when the words sound alike and the behavior repeats the reflexes of the past. The need for a clear moral and political division comes to the fore. Democracy cannot be built on new masks for old mentalities. This requires not only public declarations, but proof in action, in relation to the law, to freedom, and to responsibility toward citizens. (continued on page 2)

Korçës, 1, “RD” It is a difficult period for the Albanian economy, but also a period that calls for wise and courageous decisions. Reforms do not bear fruit immediately; however, delay makes the costs heavier. Production, work and the free market must be encouraged, without neglecting the poorest strata. The state must create fair rules of the game and fight abuse. Only in this way will citizens feel that the sacrifices they are making now have meaning and purpose. DUAJA HOXHA

Going to Europe does not mean only changing the country's external course, but changing political culture, institutions and social relations. Unity requires will, mutual understanding and overcoming harmful divisions. If we do not understand this, Europe remains an empty slogan. It requires the rule of law, a free economy and responsible citizens. The unity of democratic forces is an essential condition for coming out of isolation and entering the normal currents of the continent. (continued on page 2)

A FORCED REPLY The purpose of these lines is to clarify public opinion about an unworthy campaign of slander and insults, which continues to be carried out against some officials. Criticism is legitimate, but slander is not. In a democratic climate, debate must be based on facts, not on insinuations and labels. Public responsibility requires moderation in words and honesty in handling issues. Whoever defends press freedom must also defend the truth and the dignity of the person. (continued on page 2)