— Wasn’t one year of trial enough?! — Europe, where we want to go, has already put it to the test. In the European Parliament the socialists hold the majority, 185 seats — — Wasn’t one year of trial enough?! — Europe, where we want to go, has already put it to the test. In the European Parliament the socialists hold the majority, 185 seats — It is understandable that, in the “fever” of the electoral campaign, the “philosophical” debate about the parties should grow considerably. Most voters decided long ago which “team” they will support, and no propaganda ploy can sway them. Their convictions are tied to the vital interests they have in the parties’ programs. We are not talking about this category of people, but about the undecided middle ground, where some people sometimes readily say: “let’s give the DP another try”... Those who are more politicized take the idea further: “we tried the PP for 46 years; let’s see what these others will do.” Often these remarks are made offhandedly, prompted by weariness with party warfare, by the DP’s insistence, by a desire to appear progressive, by generosity in giving opponents a chance to try, and so on. There is no doubt that the opposition itself encourages and spreads these remarks when it lacks arguments and seeks power as if it were humanitarian aid. The fact is that most people do not take the current political struggle so irresponsibly. They may not know how to explain the theories of taking power through parliamentary channels, but intuitively they understand where handing the country’s fate over to the opposition will lead. The previous issue of RD explicitly says of the 31 March elections: “This rock, with so many people standing on the edge of the precipice, has no choice but to push it into the abyss...” No one can push people of reason and conscience forward when they can see the downhill slope for themselves. The wavering voter, “bombarded” by propaganda from both sides, does not know whom to trust. But they will not so easily gamble away their own lives and those of their children. More than words, newspapers and rallies, they trust life, the facts. You only have to drink a glass of wine to taste its strength... One year with the Government of Stability, and particularly with local power largely in the hands of the opposition, was enough for people to see the facts: tranquility, supply, crime, violence, insecurity, assimilation, misery, distortion, etc. The DP itself told its members and supporters: “occupation and control.” This year, in presenting its election program, it addresses them in large letters: — “...” When he was not elected as an MP, did he decide to use the option he had kept in reserve as Party chairman so that, at a young age, he would not disappear from Albania’s attention? Is there sincerity, transparency and honesty in such actions? He claims that the youth proposed him and that they listened. But in the previous legislature, when he was again an MP in the very same constituency that rejected him, who had proposed him? And was the minister appointed by the youth? So, we tried them in power, in government. Are they still going to experiment on us? Will he spend his whole life eating on expenses and riding around in a car?! Are we still supposed to give Asem Hajdari a try, when he interrupted his military service for health reasons (brain defects) and is now being touted as a minister of public order?! He postponed his studies because they were supposedly too politicized, while, in complete disregard of the rules, he is simultaneously attending two faculties?!.. We could go on like this with other opposition leaders. The class struggle, in whose implementation genuinely extreme positions have often been taken, has perhaps never been as fierce as it is today. Is this the democracy we dreamed of?! There are thousands of genuine democrats in the ranks of the Socialist Party and the opposition. True cooperation among these forces will be the democratic future. Let party leaders find the best alternative, but without spiteful positions such as: “no cooperation with the Socialist Party.” We have done enough experimenting by presenting bureaucratic centralization as pure socialism; are we now going to continue with the opposite extreme, presenting savage capitalism as pure democracy?! Surely there are people over 47 who lived through the market economy, great capitalism and feudalism, and barely escaped? Are we to set an example for others again by admitting that we are backward? Europe, toward which we are heading, has already conducted these experiments. Left-wing parties in the west and east of the continent have become regulators in democratic life. Left-wing parties, contrary to the way the opposition tries to portray them, are a force in some European countries and in others constitute the main political forces. In France, for two consecutive legislatures, from 1981 until now, the Socialist Party has been in power. Socialist parties are likewise in power in Spain, Portugal, Sweden, and elsewhere. In Switzerland, among the seven ministers, the deputy prime minister and two ministers, including the foreign minister, are socialists. In Hungary, the president of the Supreme Court, a distinguished European figure, is Peter Sider, chairman of the European parliamentary committee and of the Hungarian parliament’s foreign affairs committee; a member of the leadership of the Austrian Social Democratic Party is chairman of the Austrian parliament’s foreign affairs committee. In Italy, Deputy Prime Minister Martelli, the foreign minister, the minister for immigration, etc., belong to the Socialist Party. In Greece, public opinion is such that the PASOK victory in the next elections—that is, the victory of the socialist forces—is considered assured, and so on. In conclusion, with the psychology of a small country that wants all the external assistance it can get, we can say that in the European Parliament most members, 185, belong to the left. But there, political forces and their leaders democratically make way for one another according to the people’s will and their abilities. The whole world recognizes the necessity of the left to ensure development. Only here do we regard it as outdated and incapable of renewal. Are we going to experiment with power?! Are we going to gamble with the country’s fate—“let’s give the opposition a turn this time, let’s try them...” But once they take over and make the rules, do you think they will ask for your opinion? As the people say, once the bird has flown from your hand, try catching it when you want. The opposition’s cracks, contradictions in its programs and disagreements can now be seen from a kilometer away. The thirst for power among its leaders has blinded them. Nevertheless, the democrats try to impose themselves by having foreigners present. That their minds are set on power, rather than on ideology or future programs, is, we hope, clear from the fact that the main target of their attacks is the Socialist Party, and not some other extreme left-wing force. Why? Because it does not threaten the opposition’s chances of taking power. “Jokes” and “experiments” with power are dangerous. Our nation has no time for experiments anymore. SEDAT BRAJA facts: tranquility, supply, crime, violence, insecurity, assimilation, medical care, housing, etc. The DP itself addressed its members and supporters as “ladies and gentlemen.” Now, in presenting its electoral program, it addresses them in large letters: “Brothers and sisters.” Why has the leadership of this party become so warm, so affectionate? Because it saw that the “ladies” and “gentlemen” were not servants who earned their living through their own work, but simply beggars living on aid from foreigners. Whatever direction propaganda takes, people are not so forgetful that they cannot remember the DP comrade’s “therapy,” the theory of “reducing everything to zero,” and the satisfaction expressed in saying, “there is nothing for us to destroy because almost nothing good has been done.” Nevertheless, we endured and hoped in the opposition leaders and the distinguished young economists who had until then been held back. But where are Gramoz Pashako and Ceni Ruli now? Where did the reform get stuck?! Are they going to put property back on the head of the people?! Who brought down the Government of Stability? In other words, who caused the efforts to establish calm? Everyone knows that too. Many students found out how democratic the DP is; some of them, in December 1991, endured beatings and rubber truncheons and later, disillusioned, formed the Eurosocialist Youth. Workers found out: they heeded calls for strikes and are now threatened with assistance and unemployment. Peasants found out: they see the fallow land with their own eyes, their families’ only source of livelihood. Intellectuals found out: they began to experience the democratic processes, and now they are left in financial difficulty and depersonalized. Children found out: they were traumatized by the quarrels of adults and are often themselves drawn into them at school. Veterans found out: they suffer inwardly when they see history distorted, as happens all too often. The fallen found out: their bones ached in their graves. How many trials must certain kinds of “democrats” undergo—the ones who hold up two fingers and even turn on the depots, shouting, “Down with the Reds!”? Frrrok Çupi, Preç Zogaj, Emin Mysliu, Neritan Ceka and dozens of others have experienced this kind of “democracy.” Still more trials? Are we going to go on being guinea pigs for experiments forever? To demonstrate the accuracy of an experiment, genuine scientists put themselves to the test. Faraday himself entered the cage he had built to prove his theory of the magnetic field. These “reformers,” by contrast, have already secured and guaranteed things for themselves, leaving promises for everyone else. Are we still supposed to give Sali Berisha a try? Has he been as energetic and passionate at the head of the DP as he was an extremist and uncompromising for years as a PP organization secretary? Are we still supposed to give Skënder Gjinushi a try? Although in March he himself held meetings with PP voters and Teodor Laço appeared on the PSD platforms … having lived through the market economy, capitalism and even feudalism, which they have barely managed to explain? Are we going to become an example for others again when we ourselves admit that we are backward? The distribution of peasant land has reached their means. Schools of all levels, despite the difficulties they have faced, are operating. The so-called patriots are none other than traitors and collaborators of the Nazi-fascist occupier, who, in their capacity as commanders of Balli Kombëtar, burned entire houses and villages and killed the best sons and daughters of the people of the Vlora district, bringing them countless suffering and sacrifices. Veterans, the disabled, the families of martyrs, and all those who took part in various ways in the Anti-Fascist National Liberation War—the most sensitive segment of the people, who fought these traitors tooth and nail—know their deeds better than anyone else and fully agree with the statement by the Committee of Veterans and the Disabled of the Vlora district, which was published in the press. The Presidium notes that this action does not serve national reconciliation in any way, despite how much it is being discussed; on the contrary, it has caused social tension. For this reason, it does not remain silent about its profound reaction and at the same time calls on the political parties, organizations and various associations of our country not only to make their positions known, but also to take effective measures to ensure that these actions are not repeated. An indifferent attitude toward these anti-Albanian acts causes tension among the people and spoils the atmosphere of the election campaign. While expressing its conviction that these excesses will be stopped, the Presidium also observed that veterans’ and disabled people’s organizations at the local and district levels should intensify their work with representatives of the political parties PD, PR and PSD. By the Presidium of the National Committee of Veterans and the Disabled of the Anti-Fascist National Liberation War.

— Enlarged meeting of the PSSH Steering Committee and its parliamentary candidates — Yesterday, under the chairmanship of comrade Fatos Nano, an enlarged meeting of the PSSH Steering Committee and its parliamentary candidates was held. Yesterday, under the chairmanship of comrade Fatos Nano, an candidates was held. The main purpose of the meeting was to approve the lists of candidates for this party’s seats in the People’s Assembly, who will compete in the 22 March elections. A great deal of preparatory work was done before this approval was reached: hundreds of proposals from the party’s grassroots and its supporters were reviewed, the proposed names were tested among the people, and they were discussed at several meetings of district steering committees and the Party Steering Committee. In this work, the aim was to ensure that the final candidate lists included the most worthy representatives of the many members and supporters of the PSSH, people widely known and respected by the masses, distinguished figures in politics, science and the economy, and young intellectuals. The Socialist Party of Albania selected candidates for parliament in all 100 electoral zones. In the lists, which will be published shortly, people will find distinguished figures in politics, the economy, science, literature, the arts, sports, etc. The youth Eurosocialist forum will also have its representatives on these lists. They bring together different ages, experience, professions, outlooks, etc. The Socialist Party’s parliamentary candidates have nothing to answer for from the past. With these carefully selected candidates and its realistic, contemporary program, the Socialist Party enters the elections confident of victory. The meeting discussed organizing an honest and effective electoral campaign by our candidates. It was emphasized that they must work face to face with people, to explain and convince them about the opportunities offered by the Socialist Party’s program. Among other things, this program stands out when compared with the dubious and unrealistic programs of the opposition parties. It was also pointed out at the meeting that the Party’s grassroots leadership bodies must take strong organizational measures for the campaign. They must mobilize and activate the Party’s most courageous and determined people, its members and supporters. They must demand that the relevant authorities rigorously enforce the election law, denouncing any violation or manipulation by anyone. The meeting expressed complete confidence that the Socialist Party will win the 22 March elections. Correspondent of “Zëri i popullit”

INFORMATION FROM PERMETI The electoral campaign in the district of Përmet for the 22 March elections is proceeding in accordance with the election law, with the worthy aim of ensuring that they are free, fair and honest. Everyone is working to prevent incidents; this is what the people want. The unrest that has been stirred up by small groups, with a tendency or an incitement toward turmoil, has been condemned by public opinion, easing the work of the law-enforcement forces and preventing actions that run counter to the people’s interests. There are many factors in preventing incidents; here are some of those that have had a positive impact. The supply of basic basket goods to the people has been well organized and monitored in good time, and consequently there have been no disturbances or anarchy. Economic reform is being implemented step by step, in accordance with legal provisions. Distribution of land to the peasantry has covered more than 90 percent of the area. After receiving the land, farmers are working to plant various crops according to their means. Schools of all levels, despite the dif- are operating normally. This is thanks to the diligence and efforts of the administration. Privatization in the trade and services sector has embarked on a path of consolidation. Production enterprises, in accordance with the “Law on Enterprises,” have been organized into narrow, flexible profiles. After being divided into small enterprises, elections for management councils were held democratically, with the workers’ free choice. It should be emphasized that during this reorganization process, work has not been interrupted in most enterprises. Few enterprises are paying workers 80 percent of their wages. Efforts are being made to find profitable work fronts for the enterprise and its workers in order to overcome the difficulties that arise in some enterprises. In these efforts to avoid interruptions in work, we single out the land-reclamation enterprise. Based on our conversation with its director, Kosta, we give some concrete information about the ways found to avoid paying workers 80 percent. In January and February, it completed a volume of work twice that of the same period last year. The enterprise has 140 workers for whom work has been secured at the Alipostivan reservoir and in Sep of Kërcyrë, which help provide water for agricultural irrigation. By agreement, work was found in three shifts for the other workers and specialists for whom no planned work fronts were available. For example, since there was profitable demand for stone and stone slabs, some workers were assigned to the quarry. Specialists in other fields are taking responsibility for completing several projects using their own equipment. Profitable work has also been secured for the transport vehicles. This experience is also relevant to NN, which is paying its workers 80 percent when supplies of local materials are available for new work fronts of the kind it has previously built. The intensification of work and the increase in workload have created difficulties with funds and financing for the land-reclamation enterprise, which the authorities must resolve so that it is not obstructed. Participation in work and production is a source of income for living and a key factor in maintaining calm and avoiding incidents, so that we can go to the elections with dignity and civility.

Yesterday morning, the President of the Republic, Mr. Alia, held separate meetings with representatives of the parliamentary commission on organized crime, the Ministry for Organized Crime, the Ministry for Labour Invalids, and the Association of Albanian Invalids. At these meetings, the President inquired about the activities of these associations, their programs and the problems they had encountered in the course of organizing themselves fully. Representatives of the two associations raised the issue of drafting the law on the status of labour invalids and that of orphans. They stressed the need to strengthen care for labour invalids, to give greater attention to the adoption of Albanian children by foreigners, to Albanian orphans who have emigrated abroad, etc. PRESS AND INFORMATION OFFICE AT THE PRESIDENCY

A few days ago, the Presidium of the National Committee of Veterans and Invalids of the National Liberation Antifascist War met and discussed and approved its pluralist platform concerning the 22 March elections. The speakers pointed out that the veterans and invalids of the National Liberation Antifascist War, always relying on the pluralist character of this organization, will stand alongside the forces fighting for freedom, independence and social justice, and fully committed to the triumph of genuine democracy in our country. It was also said that, firmly distancing themselves from careerist elements and political adventurers, as well as from any other party manipulation, they will vote for the most acceptable alternative and for those candidates who, through their honest work, have earned a reputation and the people’s sympathy. At the same time, they will vote for candidates who, among other things, will seriously commit themselves to using every democratic means to better defend the symbols and ideals of the National Liberation Antifascist War, for which our people made great sacrifices and shed blood. But what provoked the most discussion was the recent event in Vlorë, where a special ceremony was held to rebury the remains of several so-called patriots, who supposedly were victims of monism. Several invalids and labour [text continues: “for orphans greater attention should be given orphans who have emigrated abroad, etc.”] also took part in this sinister ceremony. The Presidium unanimously declared that this reburial was a dangerous provocation and continually tramples on the sacrifices and blood shed by our people during the National Liberation Antifascist War, wh—

Passengers travelling by boat from Koman to Dushaj or vice versa encounter a strange situation. If you travel on the “Dardania” ferry, the ticket costs 10 lek, while tickets on the other boats cost 30 lek. The ferry gets you there in 1 hour and 45 minutes, while the stationary boats take nearly 5 hours. Why this difference? We learn that Hysen Cufi, director of the Water Enterprise in Vau i Dejës, sent a letter to the boat dispatch office ordering that, “On the basis of the Ministry of Finance letter no. 3/31 dated 30.10.1991, ‘On the liberalization of prices and tariffs,’ the price of tickets for passengers travelling by ferry or other boats shall, from 1 January 1992, be changed from 10 to 30 lek.” Passengers from Bajram-Curri protested against this high fare. The director reportedly lowered the fare again to 10 lek, but only for those travelling by ferry—that is, for townspeople. The liberalized price of 30 lek remained for the other boats. I would like to tell the managers of this enterprise: since the enterprise is state-owned, why should villages in three districts, such as Shkodër, Pukë and Tropojë, have to travel at the liberalized price? Perhaps the enterprise directorate has transferred one of the boats to private ownership? No, they say. Then why is this injustice being done to the highlanders of the villages of Temal, Toplanë and Lekbibaj? This is not right at all. Perhaps the economic situation of these highlanders, who live in these very mountainous areas, is better than that of city residents? No. For more than a year they have received no income or assistance of any kind. Please, Mr. Hysen, do not treat them this way. They know well the hardships the country is going through, but they should not be treated like stepchildren. Raising travel ticket prices only for villagers is completely unfair. ZEF NIKA Teacher at the Koman eight-year school