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Zëri i Popullit

E shtunë, 29 Shkurt 1992

"LET'S TRY PD ONCE, TOO..."

— In the phrase that drew citizens' attention, in Europe there is division in Albania. — In the socialist republican parliament, 183 seats were won by 6[?] Thus it became apparent that, in a great hurry to win as many anti-votes as possible, irresponsible promises have spread across all social groups. The opposition's first step came with the "sheet of promises": total privatization, low taxes, land for peasants, bread in abundance, high wages, housing for everyone, full freedom of the market, and many, many others. It was enough just to listen to the election rallies to be convinced that the future government would solve everything at once. In this climate, the idea arose that today a new alternative had to be tried. This was reinforced by propaganda, by anger over the economic situation, and by a lack of trust in the existing institutions. Comparisons were made with other countries in Eastern Europe, examples were cited, and immediate change was promised. In reality, the citizen's political choice was not always based on cool analysis, but on emotional judgments and on the desire to punish yesterday. In this sense, the slogans of the opposition did their job. They entered everyday conversations, into families, neighborhoods, factories, and villages. Words such as "democracy," "pluralism," "privatization," and "free market" became instruments of persuasion and were often used without sufficient explanation. The impression was created that a change of power alone would be enough for the country to enter a new path, without obstacles and without costs. But politics is not only desire. It is also responsibility, a program, the ability to administer, to build a state and an economy. If the vote is given solely on the basis of anger, disappointment comes quickly. Every citizen should understand this risk. Let PD be tried too, some say; but this trial must not be made with eyes closed. In the end, the decision remains with the voter. He will weigh not only the promises, but also the seriousness of the political forces, the clarity of the programs, and the real possibilities for implementing them. Albania needs change, but above all it needs responsibility and maturity.
Shqipëri Europë Europës Lindore

Candidates for deputies in the People's Assembly of the Socialist Party approved

— Meeting of the PSSH leadership committee and the leadership committee candidates Yesterday, at an expanded meeting of the PSSH Leadership Committee, the candidacies for deputies were discussed and the final list for most electoral districts was approved. The discussion emphasized that representation should be as broad as possible and should reflect the social strata, professions, and the different regions of the country. At this meeting there was also talk about the need for a calm, civilized election campaign, far from the language of hatred. It was underlined that the Socialist Party enters the elections with its program, its organizational experience, and its responsibility not to allow the country to become destabilized. Representatives of the branches gave concrete opinions on the candidacies, on the inclusion of women and young people, as well as on figures with social integrity. It was requested that in every zone there should be candidates who know the problems of the electorate and who enjoy real support in the community. In conclusion, the candidacies were approved and room was left for additions where further verification was required.

A calm work situation, but somewhat reduced

INFORMATION FROM PËRMET Are things always lacking? Are the causes lacking? Are the ways out lacking? These questions are being raised today by many working people in the Përmet district. In enterprises and institutions there is a general calm, but also a certain hesitation in the face of economic difficulties. In town and in the countryside there is a shortage of certain goods, fluctuations in supplies, and a decrease in the pace of production. Nevertheless, people continue to work and seek concrete answers. Particularly in the agricultural sector there is a need for chemical fertilizers, seeds, spare parts, and fuel. In meetings with citizens, concern is expressed about prices, transport, and the future of families. But alongside the concerns there is also a demand for order, cooperation, and the normalization of everyday life. These are precisely the main expectations of voters in this district. It is reported that production units are working with difficulties, but without complete interruptions. In some cases the working hours have been reduced, in others the capacity has been lowered. Nevertheless, there are no signs of panic; there is more waiting and caution. This is the overall picture of Përmet these days.
Përmet

Professional views

TIRANA A few days ago, the leadership of the Confederation of Trade Unions of Albania met and discussed the progress of work, the economic situation, and workers' concerns. It called for issues related to pay, transport, and working conditions to be included in the discussion. At the meeting it was emphasized that trade-union organizations should be closer to their membership, identify real concerns, and exert lawful pressure on the relevant institutions. The role of trade unions in a pluralistic climate and the need for their independence were also discussed. There was also discussion of sectors where jobs are being lost and where workers feel insecure about the future. According to the participants, more information and transparency in decision-making are needed. The leadership expressed itself in favor of more continuous dialogue with the government and with political entities, with the aim of protecting workers' interests.
Tiranë Shqipëri

Activities of the President of the Republic

On Friday, 28 February 1992, the President of the Republic held a working meeting with leaders of central institutions and addressed several issues related to the course of public order, the functioning of the administration, and preparations for the electoral process. At the meeting, strict application of the law and institutional cooperation to preserve peace and normality in the country were called for. It was emphasized that state bodies must show a high level of responsibility during this period. The Press Office at the President of the Republic announced that there will be other working meetings in the coming period.