Corruption is one of the gravest and most troubling afflictions of transitional societies, such as Albanian society as well. Shaken and alarmed when a series of corrupt acts was recently noticed, raising to an unprecedented level the mafiazation of the state and governance, the chairman of the Socialist Party, Mr. Fatos Nano, declared that the problem of corruption is “extremely troubling for Albanians.” Going even further, he stated that “corruption cannot be the monopoly of power,” meaning that it exists everywhere, even in the opposition. In other words, Mr. Nano treated corruption as a general phenomenon of Albanian society and not as a direct consequence of the merging of the state and administration with the ruling party. This thesis was justified with some ridiculous speculations in a statement by the chairman of the Socialist parliamentary group. Instead of joining the general civic concern over this destructive phenomenon, Mr. Servet Pëllumbi tried to politicize it by attributing it also to the opposition. He compared “some corrupt cases being uncovered by the media in Albania” with “the suspicions and mutual accusations regarding corruption in Berlusconi's government and the opposition.” In his view, “we must be clear that this is a phenomenon encountered more often in the stages of private enterprise and market economy,” where “there are opportunities and cases for corruption.” By viewing corrupt phenomena in Albania as “endemic” and “growing,” the two Socialist leaders implied that the government can do nothing about it, that after all this is simply how a society and a state emerging from communism are. But how acceptable are these views? It is more than clear that Mr. Nano is speculating with corruption, trying to shift part of the blame onto the opposition as well. He is trying to trivialize the problem by giving the impression that corruption is an unavoidable part of the transition period. Instead of denouncing it as a serious and destructive phenomenon rooted in the current regime, he is trying to make its real nature obscure and suspicious. By treating corruption as a “general” issue, Socialist leaders are avoiding their political and moral responsibility. This is in fact a way of protecting power from the consequences of the serious revelations that are being made public. Instead of demanding transparency, they relativize the facts and seek to create fog. Corruption in Albania cannot be explained as a free product of the market, but as the result of the capture of institutions, political clientelism, and the lack of democratic oversight. These are precisely the features of a system in which the ruling party has spread its tentacles throughout the administration, economy, and justice. The reaction of the Socialist leadership is not merely a political mistake; it is a dangerous alternative of protection for corruption. By denying its political source, they also hinder the real fight against it. Albanians expect corruption to be condemned, not excused.

Yesterday as well, before departing and receiving the Cypriot delegation, in the hall of the spiceri[?] of Gushka, a ceremony was held for the conferral of high ranks on the military personnel of the Republic of Albania. 20 members of the military personnel of the Republican Guard of the Republic of Albania, commanded by the Deputy Minister of Order, brigade general Ismail Lleshi, successfully carried out the mission of discipline and maintaining order at yesterday's ceremony. The enthusiasm of the soldiers was evident. The President of the Republic and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Mr. Sali Berisha, decreed: The President of the Republic greeted the new decoration, emphasizing that the high military rank expresses the state's appreciation for their contribution to defending the country. He underlined that the reform of the Albanian army is linked to professionalism, dedication, and the responsibility of the commands. PHOTO - A. AHMETI (Continues on page 2) The President of the Republic confers high ranks on several commanders. (Photo: A. Ahmeti)

Democratic as a principle in power The leadership of the PDSH branch for Tirana[?] meets PDSH again on the three decrees of the president Gjirokastër On Saturday in the city of Gjirokastër and on Sunday in Delvinë, press conferences were held by the chairmen of the district councils from these two districts, who placed at the center of their statements the recent developments in the political and social sphere, as well as the violence exercised in recent days by the PS against local government bodies. Representatives of local government in these districts accused the local structures of the Socialist Party of pressure, threats, and attempts to hinder the normal functioning of local institutions. According to them, such behavior seriously undermines the process of decentralization and the consolidation of local democracy. They assessed that administrative reform and its deepening will strengthen the role of local government and give communities more breathing space to solve their own problems. At the press conferences it was emphasized that it is essential for local government not to be seen as an appendage of political parties, but as an important link in democratic administration. It was also requested that the government respect local autonomy and not allow party interference in the work of the councils. It was made known that the denunciations and concerns presented will be sent to the relevant central bodies. (Continues on page 2)

Moscow (ATS/Interfax) News about disagreements over the course of economic reforms and the worsening political climate continue to dominate the Russian press. In numerous commentaries it is stressed that the process of transformations is facing great difficulties and that the government is seeking broader international support. The Chairman of the Albanian Parliament, Mr. Ahmori, during his meetings in Moscow, reiterated that Albania is interested in expanding relations with the Russian Federation and in intensifying parliamentary contacts. According to agency reports, the Albanian side expressed interest in economic cooperation and exchanges in various fields. The official meetings also discussed the situation in the region and Russia's role in international developments. Sources underline that the visit was an opportunity to present Albanian positions regarding important foreign policy issues. (Continues on page 2)

The circle of interests allegedly caused to mafiosi in Italy expands[?] A few days ago the Court of Appeal decided to return the “Arsidi” case for reconsideration, a process that has aroused great interest because of possible links with criminal circles and illegal financial activity. The decision was widely commented on in the Italian press, where it was emphasized that the investigations could broaden the circle of responsibilities and affect powerful interests. According to reports, the case is linked to activities suspected of being used for money laundering and concealed transactions. Reopening the file is seen as an opportunity to clarify the role of the people involved and to shed light on a broader scheme. Sources close to the investigation have said that additional material has been collected and that new testimonies are expected. Commentaries note that this case is important not only legally but also politically, because of the connections that may come to light. (Continues on page 2)

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1- Colonel Agron Haki 2- Colonel Luan Hoxha 3- Colonel Aleksandër Xhuvani 4- Colonel Azis Çela 5- Colonel Skënder Xhemi Lieutenant colonels: 17- Colonel Syrja Veli Sali 18- Colonel Mustafa Shehu Navy: 20- Colonel Bejo Veli Harizi 21- Colonel Ylli Ilmi Cene 22- Colonel Tefik Ndoca 23- Colonel Islam Mahdiu 24- Colonel Ferit Goga 25- Colonel Edur Preja 26- Colonel Gafur Sula Air Force: 7- Colonel Pavli Hasani 8- Colonel Petrit Selimi 9- Colonel Altin Haxhia 10- Colonel Thani Bajrami 11- Colonel Luan Ramiz Koha (Continues on page 2)

In the morning, PDSH National Council (Continues on page 2)