STATEMENT OF THE PDSH PRESIDIUM Unacceptable and shameful stance, contrary to national interests, by the PS representative, Mr. Dokle The PDSH Presidium states that it is following with deep concern the latest developments in the process of democratization and the consolidation of democratic post-totalitarian institutions in our country. The election of the Head of the State Control by the Socialists in Parliament, with the sole motive that he is their representative and by voting against the candidate of the parliamentary majority, is in open contradiction with the spirit of political consensus and with the standards already established over two and a half years of democratic governance. In particular, the PDSH considers unacceptable the statement by MP Namik Dokle, who described the election of Mr. Maksim Cikuli as an act that gives the opposition control of governance. Such a statement not only does not help the spirit of political cooperation, but on the contrary harms it and suggests that independent institutions are seen as party instruments. The PDSH has supported and will continue to support the functioning of independent institutions on the basis of the Constitution and the law. For this reason, the stance expressed by the PS representative runs counter to national interests and to the efforts to build a state governed by the rule of law. Tirana, 9.9.1993

It is you who only praise Enver Hoxha and glorify the victories... Those who have been very engaged in defending the former forces, are destabilizing the country by wanting to show what kind of III there is BY YLMI DEJKAQI[?] We, the European representatives opposite the anti-communist Albanian government and the socialist majority, do not understand how one of its representatives can say that the opposition is an enemy of the government and of the people. The foreign minister of my country would never be able to speak in this way. MP Namik Dokle made a political blunder yesterday in parliament. He strongly opposed the appointment of the PD candidate for head of the State Control, Maksim Cikuli, without presenting any argument in support of this position. He further declared in parliament that democracy does not need such an opposition. This shows that there are still forces that think with old mentalities and try to hinder the institutionalization of political pluralism. In the end, Albania needs institutions that control governance and not institutions captured by parties. If someone calls this destabilization, then this shows that they have still not understood what parliamentary democracy is. This debate has also been closely watched by representatives of the Council of Europe. EDI PALOKA

From the People’s Assembly From the discussion by MP Gazmend Bakiu on the draft law “On ranks in the armed forces” and the problems of army reform. In the premises of the People’s Assembly, a discussion was held on the draft law “On ranks in the armed forces” and on the need for a deep reform of the Albanian army. MP Gazmend Bakiu stressed that the establishment of military ranks according to modern standards is an essential element in the reorganization of the armed forces. According to him, the new law aims to break away from old ideological practices and to create a functional, professional and responsible command structure. In this context, the career criteria, command responsibilities, and the link between ranks and professional training were also discussed. The discussion also focused on the role the army should have in a democratic, depoliticized state serving the defense of the country. The deputies assessed that military reform requires a clear legal basis, civilian control, and new organizational standards. (to be continued on page 8)

Issue “On ranks in the armed forces” - “Promotion” for the PS and forklik[?] Tejën II In the People’s Assembly From the discussion by MP Gazim Muçollari[?] on the draft law and the political reactions in the chamber. During the vote on the draft law “On ranks in the armed forces,” strong political reactions were also noted from deputies of the opposition and the majority. The debate took on a polemical tone, especially over the way the role of the army and its reforms were being interpreted. According to the speakers, the draft law should not be used for immediate political gain, but as a necessary act for establishing institutional order. It was emphasized that promotion cannot be treated as a political reward. (to be continued on page 8)

Mr. William Ryerson is in Albania on a two-year diplomatic mission and has so far proclaimed his country as a land of democracy. In the eyes of the Socialist Party chairman, Mr. Dokle, he remains a red ambassador. J. XHOGA [?] in Tirana, 9.9.1993 Mr. William Ryerson is in Albania to carry out his duties as the U.S. ambassador in our country, a post he has held for the past 3 years. On Thursday he also celebrates Independence Day. Mr. Ryerson told us that the prices of freedom remain difficult, but Albania’s path toward integration is clear. Amid the polemical reactions in parliament over the election of Mr. Cikuli to head the State Control, the American ambassador has called for moderation, institutional cooperation, and focus on reforms. “WE BELIEVE IN THIS SO RAPID PROGRESS OF ALBANIA SO RAPID PROGRESS OF ALBANIA The Albanian government knows very well the country’s problems and the country is on the right path, as regards the assistance it is receiving from international organizations and the United States. What is being said these days, suggesting that the integrity of the institutions is being called into question by the opposition, is nothing more than political rhetoric. The President of the United States, Mr. Bill Clinton, and the U.S. State Department have praised the progress made in Albania during this period and have expressed their willingness to support democratic and economic reforms. During his visits and contacts, Mr. Ryerson has said that political pluralism, freedom of the press, and the rebuilding of institutions are key elements of Albania’s success. He further stated that in the United States, it is appreciated that Albania is moving at a rapid pace toward the standards of a democratic country. (to be continued on page 8)