From the implementation of radical measures against the monopoly of labor? On 23 February 1991, immediately after the end of the demonstration organized by the Democratic Party in Tirana, at around 1:30 p.m. at the “Tirana” hotel, large police and Ministry of the Interior forces, with vehicles and tanks, and without any clear reason, began a broad police operation against the citizens present. According to many witnesses, the intervention was harsh and created a heavy climate of fear and insecurity. Many citizens were stopped, beaten, and taken to police stations. Rubber batons and armored vehicles were used, and warning shots were heard[?]. This caused great outrage in public opinion and increased political tension in the capital. In this situation, many people ask: who is creating the tension? Is it the peaceful protesters, or the disproportionate response of the law-enforcement authorities? Instead of engaging in dialogue with the citizens, the path of force was chosen. This development comes at a time when the country needs calm, democratic reforms, and respect for fundamental freedoms. Any act of violence against citizens cannot bring stability, only further escalation. Many of those detained were later released, but the event of 23 February remains a warning sign of the way political opponents and citizens seeking change are being treated.

A statement by the Executive Committee of the country’s Presidential Council If some people want to impose a certain political path on the country by means of pressure, violence, or violation of the constitutional order, this cannot be accepted. True democracy is built only through the free expression of the will of the people and through the vote. State institutions have the duty to guarantee order, law, and public calm, but also to create the conditions for citizens to express their free opinions without fear and without obstacles. Under these conditions, any attempt to replace the sovereignty of the people with street pressure or adventurous actions runs counter to the national interest and to the democratic future of the country. The Executive Committee emphasizes that political processes must develop in respect of the law and democratic norms, while the people will have the decisive word with their vote.

Rallies across the districts In many cities of the country, gatherings and rallies were held in support of order, calm, and national unity. Participants emphasized that Albania needs work, understanding, and democratic solutions, not incitement to conflict. From various cities it was reported that citizens called for the preservation of public order, the avoidance of division, and respect for institutions. In banners and slogans, emphasis was placed on the need for national responsibility in this decisive period. Various speakers declared that the Albanian people must decide their future by vote and that no one has the right to exert pressure on the free will of the citizens. The gatherings took place in a calm atmosphere and ended with calls for stability, unity, and progress.

(Photo: N. Xhiku) To Tirana

Mayors left our country[?], yesterday’s three denounced[?] Kosovo once left abandoned on the road From Fier[?], at yesterday’s rally, there was talk of hardships, difficulties, and the need for Albanians to stand united. The situation of the brothers in Kosovo and the need for solidarity were also mentioned. The speakers said that no one should profit from a difficult situation in order to stir up hostility or harm national interests. (To be continued on page 2)

ELBASAN ...the children are even talking in their sleep about bullets and horrors. Yet in front of the cinema where yesterday’s popular meeting took place, people are talking seriously, calmly, and as decent citizens. “We have brought our children here,” says an elderly man, “so they can hear what is being said and understand that without calm there is no life.” There are no shouts or insults in the square. There is a natural concern, but also a determination not to allow division. The speakers call for moderation, the preservation of order, and civic responsibility. (To be continued on page 2)

The ambassador of the PPS of Albania in the USA-sap[?]ës? in Macedonia and Vlorëdalë[?] (ATSH) On 24 February 1991, the special ambassador of the PPS of Albania[?] made a statement concerning the recent political developments and the need to preserve constitutional order. The statement emphasizes that political pluralism must develop on the basis of the law and that violence or the incitement of chaos cannot be allowed. The General Council of the PPSH calls on all members and sympathizers to act with calm, maturity, and responsibility. (To be continued on page 2)