PD IN THE THROES OF TOTAL POWER CO-GOVERNANCE UNDER THE ATTACKS OF MONISM In the Tuesday notice for this Wednesday and for today, “Democratic Alliance”, on the initiative of its chairman, proposed a meeting and round table. In the extremely complicated political situation and the worsening economic crisis, this request was more than necessary. Its absence in this period led to unnecessary tensions and clashes. If the election developments of 22 March 1992 oriented the country toward a new balance of political forces, this could not exclude the need for political dialogue. On the contrary, dialogue should have been a calming and stabilizing factor. But later events showed that the PD, instead of considering institutional and political cooperation indispensable, treated it as an excessive luxury. Instead of acting responsibly at a time when the country was going through a multi-dimensional crisis, it gave priority to the goal of total power. This appeared in its attitudes toward institutions, toward the opposition, toward the administration, and toward the overall political climate. The new parliamentary majority behaved as if its electoral victory were a mandate to exclude every other voice. This made it impossible to create a climate of trust. In its place, suspicion, tension, and a spirit of revenge were cultivated. Under such conditions the formula of dialogue, which in democracy is the most normal way to overcome disagreements, was set aside. The logic of imposition, not agreement, was applied. This undermined not only inter-party relations, but the functioning of the state itself. Co-governance, or at least cooperation on the country’s fundamental issues, would have been the most rational path. Albania needed calm, responsibility, and a minimum of consensus. Instead, the country saw attacks on every idea that did not come from the center of the new power. Monism does not return only in its classical form. It can also appear as an exclusionary mindset, as a desire to control everything, as a tendency to replace dialogue with command. These are precisely the signs now appearing in the way governance is being conceived. The concern about these trends is legitimate. Democracy is not only a matter of vote counts; it is a culture of compromise, respect for the opponent, and sharing responsibilities. Whoever forgets this risks driving the country toward a new polarization. Therefore, more than ever, the formula of dialogue must be restored. Not as a rhetorical ornament, but as a real political mechanism. Only in this way can clashes be avoided and ways out of the crisis be found. The new majority must understand that total power is not a solution. On the contrary, it is a dangerous temptation that impoverishes democracy and weakens the state. (Continued on page 4)

The majority of the... In its unhealthy zeal to do the exact opposite of the political approach that also brought the Democratic Party’s campaign into Italian executive control, this political force is bringing the same attitude into state administration. Instead of evaluating abilities, there is a tendency toward political replacement, purging of structures, and concentrating leadership in a few hands. This orientation cannot fail to have consequences for the functioning of the state. Administration is not built on revenge, but on professionalism. When day-to-day politics turns the state into the spoils of the majority, not only the opposition is harmed, but the public interest itself. Instead of preserving institutional balance, a climate of submission is being built. This spirit runs counter to promises of pluralism and tolerance and opens the way to dangerous distortions. In democracy, the majority governs, but does not usurp. It takes responsibility and provides guarantees. When these are lacking, distrust grows and the legitimacy of power itself is weakened. (Continued on page 2)

Let us hope for flowers! In Kosovo Kosovo, 28 November 1952, and the stated declaration[?]. Today as yesterday, the Albanian question in Kosovo remains tied to national rights and to the need for democratic affirmation. Political developments in the former Yugoslavia make the need for caution and solidarity even more acute. Faced with these developments, the people of Kosovo seek calm, wisdom, and support. Any lasting solution cannot come without respect for rights and recognition of its will. Within this framework, wise words and measured action are as important as resistance. Kosovo needs voices that unite, not divide. (Continued on page 4)

999 closed are not a typical case Following the request of the population and the initiative undertaken by the competent authorities, the issue of several convicted persons and individuals held in isolation in penal institutions has also come into the spotlight. Specialists in the field have also spoken about this problem, pointing out that it cannot be handled hastily or with generalizations. Each case must be examined in its own individuality and in accordance with the law. The way this issue is being discussed risks creating confusion among the public and politicizing a problem that requires legal and humane clarity. Instead of noise, fair procedure, professional assessment, and transparency are required. (Continued on page 2)

Are the Albanians left miserable? For years, emigration and poverty have been serious wounds of our society. Today, in the conditions of transition, these wounds have become more visible. Thousands of families live on the edge of survival. Unemployment, high prices, and the lack of perspective are creating an alarming situation. The greatest concern is linked to the indifference being shown toward the most needy strata. The state cannot remain a spectator. Social policies must be more active, fairer, and closer to the people. Otherwise we risk the transition being paid for only by the weakest. This requires not just declarations, but immediate measures and national solidarity. (Continued on page 4)

Starting from 12 o’clock on 20 May 1992, 30 convicted persons have gone on hunger strike. According to the notice published in the daily press, the strike took place in the prison of Burrel and was caused by the suspension of certain rights claimed by the convicted persons. According to material presented by the institution’s directorate, their demands are related to transfers, health care, and the review of certain internal procedures. On the other hand, the responsible authorities stress that the matter is being followed in accordance with the rules and with special care. In such situations, calm and professional intervention are needed. Any prolonged tension can have serious consequences both for the convicted persons and for the institution. The news once again raises the need for more humane treatment, communication, and legal solutions to conflicts in places of detention. JEVTINA SULA

● On 18 May 1992, what had to happen happened: Minister Bashkim Kopliku communicated with Mr. Alibali[?]. Nothing? He has given the instructions. ● That Koli[?]na takes up the problem again? Why did he raise it? The votes? government? ● Ownership of Alibali[?]’s arrest is attributed! It is attributed that?

A recent announcement states that the United States have lifted trade restrictions against Albania. This decision is considered an important step toward the normalization of economic relations and the encouragement of trade exchanges. The lifting of these restrictions creates new opportunities for export-import, for broader links with the international market, and for a more favorable economic climate. For Albania, the decision is of particular importance in this difficult period of transition, when the economy needs openness and confidence. Zëri i Popullit. AP bulletin of the day.

With the diplomatic personalities accredited in Tirana If you do not help yourselves, others cannot help you With the diplomatic personalities a ccredited in Tirana It is reserved as for the American ambassador Kristofer Hill? in Tirana. Dr. Claus Coles. To cope with so many difficulties and to get out of this difficult situation, Albania needs not only help from outside, but also the mobilization of its own forces. This was one of the main ideas emphasized in talks with diplomatic personalities accredited in Tirana. The diplomats pointed out that the international community is ready to help, but this aid cannot replace internal responsibility. Reform, stability, and the will to cooperate remain decisive. Their message is clear: without helping itself, the country cannot expect others to work miracles. Work, patience, and the wise use of foreign support are required. (Continued on page 4)

Another social... divided from a weakened economy and a tense political climate, society is facing old phenomena that were thought to have been overcome. Among them are also prolonged tensions fed by uncertainty, the lack of strong institutions, and polarization. Instead of energies being focused on recovery, they are often channeled into unnecessary conflicts. This is a luxury the country cannot afford. Therefore, clarity, self-restraint, and public responsibility are required. (Continued on page 4)

The chairman of the Italian parliament, PDS d. Alema, says that Albania is verifying the positive course of its transformation and hopes to overcome the crisis. He declares that the Socialist Party of Albania is a positive factor