Speech by Mr. E. Selami, chairman of PDSH, at the PD Conference in Durrës After a long statement Bulluk, Hasan, and Tafis drithi. The passionate ones, (a term where there prevails an old closeness with the positivism of others) were in the hall to hear a man with defined views. An economist who works with the economy. To think according to another stage, but with a shared hope in our chests. Since we are in the second phase of our functioning as a modern party, we must be closer to the standards of such a modern party. We must try to organize the party better by creating more functional structures. Our party must be open and dynamic, must have lively and not closed forums. There must be room for different opinions, for the clash of ideas and not for sycophancy. We need organizational discipline, respect for decisions, and greater individual responsibility. Without a strong and organized party, we cannot advance the democratic processes and reforms the country requires. We must be a party that looks toward Europe, toward the European standard of political organization, communication with citizens, and accountability to the electorate. This requires work, dedication, and democratic culture. THE DEVELOPMENT OF ALBANIA REQUIRES A MODERN PARTY

If information gathered all structures on the basis of the spirit of democracy, and in the conditions of a modern party that is aiming to build itself, many of the distortions could be avoided. That is why it is necessary to speak openly about shortcomings and mistakes. In these last months, in many districts there have been signs of excessive centralization, lack of consultation with the membership, the fading of free debate, and the personalization of decision-making. These developments do not do the party any good. We must remember that a democratic party cannot function solely on vertical orders. It needs debate, control mechanisms, and respect for the statute. Only in this way can mistakes be avoided that may seem small today, but tomorrow may cost dearly. Therefore, the time has come for wise corrections, for greater openness, and for a higher political culture. Only thus can people’s trust and the seriousness of the organization be preserved.

Interview with Mrs. Vjollca Mëçi (Mici), director at the Schoolbook Publishing House. Question: What is the situation with textbooks at the start of the school year? Answer: We have made efforts so that students do not remain without basic books. There are difficulties in printing and distribution, but work is being done to ease the shortages as quickly as possible. Question: What are the main reasons for these shortages? Answer: There is a shortage of paper, problems with printing houses and with funding. Also, changes in the curricula require reprints and new preparations. Question: What measures are being taken? Answer: We are cooperating with the relevant institutions to speed up publication and distribution. Our goal is for the teaching process not to be harmed.

The last communist leader of Eastern Europe is also brought before the court (Continues on page 2)

Kavajës Street 145, Tirana (Continues on page 8) (End of page 11)