To raise the sense of commitment and responsibility toward democracy at all levels SPEECH BY MR. EDUARD SELAMI, CHAIRMAN OF THE DEMOCRATIC PARTY Dear delegates, Dear participants, We have gathered here at this extraordinary conference of the Democratic Party, a conference that will analyze with realism and foresight the situations in which our party, democratic governance, and the country find themselves. This conference is taking place at a very important moment for Albania and for the Democratic Party itself. So far, experience has shown that in the conditions of building democracy, strengthening institutions, increasing political and civic responsibility, and consolidating our party itself remain first-order tasks. From the outset I want to emphasize that the Democratic Party has been and remains the main force that has led the democratic processes in the country. But that does not mean that we have not made mistakes, have not had shortcomings, or do not need reorganization. On the contrary, precisely our historical responsibility compels us to be more demanding of ourselves, more honest in our assessment, and more determined in correcting our flaws. The Democratic Party needs further reorganization and structuring, by removing from its ranks careerist elements and pseudodemocrats and by bringing closer people who are more capable, more honest and more dedicated. We must raise the sense of commitment and responsibility toward democracy at all levels. This is the way to strengthen citizens' trust and guarantee the continuation of reforms. We cannot allow the difficulties of the transition to be used as a pretext for wavering, for irresponsible attitudes, or for behavior that harms the image and unity of the Democratic Party. On the contrary, we must work for a higher organizational discipline, better communication with the grassroots, and a more worthy representation of citizens in our structures. Our conference should serve as a turning point for the secure future of the Democratic Party and of Albanian democracy. We must leave this meeting with clear decisions, precise guidelines, and a new spirit of cooperation and responsibility. (continued on page 3)

COMMENTARY BY MR. TOMOR DOSTI It has been one year since we established political pluralism in our country. Democracy cannot be complete unless it is accompanied by sound institutions, organizational discipline, and political responsibility. In this sense, the debate taking place today in the Democratic Party is necessary and useful. There are those who, under the guise of democracy, seek only personal privileges, positions, and influence. These are pseudodemocrats, who fear any control mechanism, any structure that guarantees replaceability and accountability. It is precisely for this reason that they react against a replaceable presidium. We must not be afraid of democratic rules. On the contrary, the more institutionalized party life is, the stronger and more credible it becomes. The presidium is not a tool for excluding different opinions, but an instrument for guaranteeing normal functioning and responsible decision-making. If we want the Democratic Party to be a modern, European, and open force, then we must accept that no one is irreplaceable. Only in this way do we avoid excessive personalization, pointless conflicts, and distortions that damage our public image. This is why the pseudodemocrats are afraid: because they do not accept standards, do not want oversight, and do not believe in internal democracy. (continued on page 2)

COMMENTARY BY MR. LEKA TOTO In these first months of democratic governance, it has become clear that the Socialist opposition has chosen the wrong path: instead of contributing to stability and institution-building, it tries to stir up discontent, distort reality, and obstruct reforms. PS propaganda aims at dividing the people. It tries to create artificial hostility, sow distrust, and politicize every economic and social difficulty the country faces. This is irresponsible and harmful behavior for democracy. The Albanian people have shown political maturity. They know that transition is not easy and that reforms require time, sacrifice, and determination. Therefore, they will not be deceived by empty words and unfounded accusations from those who until yesterday bore responsibility for the condition in which the country was left. We must respond to this propaganda with more work, more transparency, and greater closeness to the citizens. Only in this way will we preserve the unity of the people and defend the new Albanian democracy. (continued on page 2)