PROTEST FROM Ramali's Ministry of Defence TIRANA In a joyful state of alert, our officers and soldiers across the country, yesterday and the day before, reacted with deep indignation to the vandal acts that accompanied the violent protests in Shkodër. They expressed their determination to defend the constitutional order, the state institutions and public peace. The Ministry of Defence declared that the Armed Forces stand outside political clashes, but will be at the forefront of duty to prevent any attempt at destabilization. Officers from various units condemned calls for division and demanded that the fate of power be decided only by vote. In their statements they emphasize that the army belongs to the people and cannot be used for party interests. The reactions came after the tensions of recent days and after reports of incidents and clashes in Shkodër.

The political class's calculations do not work for the socialists The muted politics of PSI, on the other hand, will change democratic currents. On the basis of constitutional principles, every political force must be measured against the citizen and not the street. In these difficult days, when there is an attempt to create a climate of panic and mistrust, the socialists call on the people for calm, patience and cool judgment. No one has the right to replace institutions with ultimatums. Citizens are asking for solutions, not alarm. The history of the transition is showing that only moderation, respect for the law and fair political competition can pull the country out of crisis. Any other calculation is wrong and ends up against the interests of Albania.

They raise doubts about a lasting storm-wave between PSSH and PSI Fatos Nano in Italy Expected meetings with Berisha and De Mikelis In Italy, invited by Italian friends, the chairman of the Socialist Party of Albania, Mr. Fatos Nano, held political contacts concerning the Albanian crisis and the progress of the election campaign. According to the newspaper’s sources, during his stay meetings were also expected with representatives of Italian parties, as well as with well-known political figures. Possible meetings with Sali Berisha and with De Mikelis were mentioned. The visit was seen as part of efforts to clarify political positions and secure international support for a peaceful and democratic solution to the Albanian crisis. (To be continued on page 2)

(To be continued on page 3) Shkodër has always known how to respect its best people. In days of tension, many citizens, intellectuals, teachers and workers have tried to avoid confrontation and preserve civility. They have called for understanding and peaceful solutions. Good people should not be forgotten, especially when the noise of politics tries to drown out the voice of reason. Remembering them is a civic and moral duty.

(To be continued on page 2) These days the Yugoslav conflict took first place in Paris and in Podgorica and focused on Bosnia-Herzegovina and Kosovo. Meanwhile, in Albania the debate continues over the economic transition and over the relationship between market reform and social protection. The Socialist Party has stressed that the market economy must not destroy the weaker layers of society, but should create equal opportunities and minimum security for every citizen. The government must find the balance between liberalization and the state’s regulatory role, so that the transition does not turn into extreme impoverishment for the majority.

Tirana — Now that calm in Shkodër has been restored, that the spontaneous, anti-communist protests, the liberation[?], the unwritten opposition socialists have subsided and the euphoria of yesterday’s “victory” has faded, the causes, responsibilities and lessons are becoming clearer. Can the violent “victory” of a minority replace the winning of power through free voting? Can the overthrow of legitimate institutions through street pressure be accepted? These questions are being put today to the political conscience of the country. We will obey the will of the people, expressed through free voting, and not the ultimatum of the crowds. The Socialist Party will accept any decision that emerges from honest elections, but will firmly oppose any attempt to seize power through pressure, threats, or anarchy. Only in this way can democratic institutions and the rule of law be built.

WHERE: PS to bring back the “troçet” (Brief editorial note[?]) In the heated political debate of recent days, some voices have also tried to use the memory of the martyrs for immediate gain. This is unacceptable. Their sacrifice belongs to the nation and not to a single political force. The Socialist Party has called on everyone to stop the absurd accusations and not to tarnish the memory of those who fell for the freedom of the country. Democracy is not built by abusing history, but by respecting the truth and pluralism.

The enigma of gold or political confusion? (After an interview about gold on television)