Grand rally in the city of Kavaja. Thousands of citizens greet the chairman of the Democratic Party, Sali Berisha Berisha gathers thousands of people as in '90. The square trembles. 'Down with Nano/Down with the Government!' The removal of the socialists from power is demanded. New elections are the only solution Albania returns to the PD Kavaja was yesterday also the center of demonstrations, revolt, determination and political overthrow. Just as the entire human tide that had gathered filled the central square in front of the Palace of Culture yesterday at midday, thousands of democrats and citizens, not only from Kavaja and the surrounding villages but also from all over Albania, had come to take part in the PD rally, while opposite, at the city stadium, the echo of the socialist rally came from everywhere. No one, even if politically mandated, managed to minimize in the well-known and unheard-of manner this massive rally. The wreath of people was quite disciplined, but no less moved. Amid applause, cheers and ovations, the PD leader, Sali Berisha, was welcomed as he had been 7 years earlier, when a powerful wave of change had reached this city. It was obvious that citizens were seeking a clear political alternative. They were constantly chanting against the government and against Fatos Nano. In this atmosphere, Berisha's voice was followed with attention. He declared that Albania is facing a deep crisis and that the only way out is early elections. "On 22 March," he said, "the people must decide." The rally turned into a display of opposition political strength. The crowd raised banners and flags, while the cries "Down with Nano!" and "Down with the Government!" filled the square. According to his speech, the country cannot move forward with the current government and with institutions controlled by the socialists. He called for their removal from power and for the creation of conditions for free elections. Thousands of citizens greeted this call with enthusiasm. Yesterday's demonstration in Kavaja was considered an important turning point in the opposition's political campaign. The massive turnout and open support for the Democratic Party were interpreted as a signal of the PD's return to the powerful political scene. Yesterday in Kavaja

In the afternoon yesterday, Kavaja was democratic[?] in this atmosphere that made the difference, not only in the number of demonstrators but also in their spirit. From today the socialists, seeing this unyielding decision of this people, can consider themselves a negligible minority in Albania. The streets of the city echoed with cries of 'Nano leave', 'Down with the government', 'On 22 March', while hundreds of cars with flags crossed the city. Supporters of the PD had come from all sides. After the square in front of the Palace of Culture, people poured into the streets and the boulevard, creating a rare sight for the city. Various speakers emphasized the need for early elections and for the removal of the current government. In the crowd one could see banners, national flags and PD symbols. Sali Berisha was welcomed with powerful ovations. He said that the country cannot be held hostage by a government that has lost popular support and that elections are the only way out of the crisis.

The branch reorganization is continuing intensively ON PAGE 2

SPMSh has decided to continue the general strike The miners' economic grievances are being sharply sharpened, SPMSH is facing another responsibility and Xh.Bufi for any deterioration of the union with power ON PAGE 5

Mirena, judges and prosecutors huddle around the priest at the Archdiocese. The Christ's Zeal in the capital ON PAGE 3

ON PAGE 3

Disarmament will happen when the criminals of Çeka leave ON PAGE 2

On Saturday, 27 December 1997, at 12:00 Large rally, concert in "Skënderbej" Square Featuring the country's best artists "UNITED FOR DEMOCRACY"

On Saturday, 27.12.1997 at 11 a.m., at the congress halls, the Democratic Party is organizing an event for young people, members and sympathizers, on the occasion of the unity for a shared victory in the elections for mayors and district heads. All elected officials, presidium chairmen, branch chairmen, mayors and district heads are invited to attend.

Two bridges blown up in Gjirokastër Two bridges are blown up with damage ON PAGE 5

The company C.J. SARANTOPOULOS S.A on the occasion of the holidays sends greetings to all its employees and the Albanian people: "Happy New Year 1998!" Many years of peace, stability, love and harmony.