- Decision of the Steering Committee of the SPA - Based on the decisions of the last few days of the meeting of the Presidium and the Steering Council of the SPA and prompted by some requests that have come from some of its organizations, in a special discussion documented in writing, the Presidium of the SPA and its Steering Council decided to convene the first Congress of the Socialist Party of Albania. In this discussion, several aspects of the work and activity of the party bodies and organizations, the political situation in the country and the problems of its outlook were analyzed. It was agreed that the pluralist system has now been definitively consolidated in Albania, with its three basic components: political pluralism, economic pluralism and pluralism of freedoms and human rights. Although democratic processes have advanced and been further strengthened, the situation in the country remains difficult. Economic hardships, low production levels, rising unemployment, the decline in the population's purchasing power, the energy crisis and the insufficient supply of consumer goods make it essential to increase the political and civic responsibility of all forces. The SPA, as a major political force of the Albanian left, although it suffered defeat in the elections of 22 March, remains an important factor in the country's political life and has the duty to realistically analyze the causes of this defeat, adapt its structures and program to the demands of the time, and strengthen ties with the electorate. In the meeting it was assessed that work should continue on further democratizing party life, strengthening the role of the base in decision-making, and opening up to intellectuals, youth, women and broad strata of society. It was stressed that the congress should be a broad forum for debate, reflection and political and organizational renewal. The first Congress of the SPA will be held on 20 June 1992. Until then, conferences and meetings will be organized in districts and organizations, where the documents, statute changes, program issues and candidacies for the leading bodies will be discussed. The Steering Committee of the SPA calls on all its members and sympathizers, as well as public opinion, to contribute ideas, proposals and criticism to make the congress an important political event. (To be continued on page 5)

Instead of the special state bodies dealing with the criminal acts of theft, abuse and fraud that occurred during the past years, and handing down the deserved punishments, they often engage in noisy initiatives that do not address the essential problem. For the private agricultural sector, which is facing a major production and supply crisis, the lack of seeds, chemical fertilizers and tools, and especially the lack of fuel, have made the situation worse. In the commune of Xibrakë, farmers complain that they have worked the land, but have nothing with which to sow it. Some of them have sold livestock to secure a little money, others are waiting for aid that is not coming. Local officials make promises, but give no solutions. On the other hand, the warehouses of agricultural enterprises are empty or have only small reserves, while private owners do not have the capital to cope with the high market prices. Although spring has begun, many areas remain unsown. Residents are calling for the state to intervene immediately to ease the supply of seed, fertilizer, pesticides and fuel, and to hold accountable those who have neglected their duties. Otherwise, this year's production is at risk and the social situation in the countryside will worsen further.

WERE THESE THE PD'S VETERINARIANS FROM THE MINISTRY? Why has there been a shortage of livestock medicine for several days? Why are the relevant institutions slow to take action? These questions are being raised by farmers and specialists from different areas. According to complaints, supply shortages, delays in distribution and unclear administrative orders are creating consequences for animal health and for the economy of rural families. The article raises the suspicion that some decisions taken in the ministry were not guided by professional criteria, but by party interests. This has led to incomprehensible changes in the veterinary network and discontent at the grassroots level. Residents and sector workers are demanding clear explanations, concrete responsibility and immediate measures to normalize the situation. (To be continued on page 5)

A MEMBER OF THE DEMOCRATIC PARTY COMES FORTH A chair can swallow you up! Meetings, hall and noise, comings and goings, people waiting, people asking, and while time passes, the troubles remain the same. A member of the Democratic Party addresses the new leaders with irony, mocking the thirst for posts and armchairs. He mentions names, offices, corridors and promises, and says that many of those who once swore by change have now become slaves to offices and privileges. Citizens wait for work, but they receive words. This satirical piece criticizes the old bureaucratic mentality which, according to the author, is being revived even under new political conditions. In his view, the people do not need new political bureaus, but institutions that work and take responsibility. To tell the truth today is not a luxury, but a necessity. And the author's irony goes to the core: change is not measured by new names on old doors. (To be continued on page 5)

"LOOK IN YOUR HANDS..." Gazm Kaja[?], chairman of the trade union of an enterprise, says that on the eve of a difficult day for the supply of bread, oil and other products, people are worried. In the market and in the shops there are long queues. Many goods are missing, while prices change every day. The local administration and the supply structures are not providing convincing explanations. What stands out is that citizens ask each other what will happen tomorrow and whether they will be able to make ends meet. Some traders take advantage of the situation, while others say they have no goods to sell. The article raises the issue of the responsibility of the local authorities and the relevant bodies to guarantee supply and social calm on the outskirts of Tirana. (To be continued on page 5)

A very brief item from Shkodër A short news item reports on an event held in Shkodër. The full text is not clearly readable in the image. European Court of Human Rights Another event has been held for the protection and administration of human rights. Most of the text is illegible. (ATSH)