• On the PS view of representation in local groups. • The need to increase the institutional character of local government administration is called for. Preface • Recently, the PS decision of 24.5.1992 of the CECs, regarding the outcome of the local elections on 4 June, has made clear not only its own political position, but through it also a valuable opinion on such a sensitive and important issue as that of pluralist representation itself. Instead of such events being interpreted politically as a necessary condition for the democratic functioning of local government, in many cases there is a tendency to regard them as a reward or privilege linked more to party interests than to the public interest. This is also how some opinions expressed after the publication of the above-mentioned CEC decision are presented, according to which representation in local groups should be based both on the election results and on a formula that guarantees a kind of political balance. In addition, instead of being seen as a matter of equality among political subjects in relation to local government institutions, it is presented as an attempt to place party representation within local governing structures. The PS is of the view that fair representation of political forces in local government bodies cannot be identified with the establishment of an artificial balance scheme, which, in the end, would undermine the very logic of representation emerging from the vote. Political pluralism requires institutionalization and not its replacement by guarantee mechanisms outside the real electoral result. In this sense, pluralist representation must reflect the real relations created by the citizens’ vote and not be built on quotas or political compromise formulas. If the principle of political guarantee in local bodies were accepted, then the way would open for other distortions in the representative system, turning local institutions into a terrain for inter-party bargaining. On the contrary, a strengthening of the institutional character of local administration is needed, the growth of professionalism and public accountability, as well as a clear separation between political competition and administrative functions. Local government must be, above all, an expression of the community’s interest and of the law, not of secret political deals. (Continues on page 2)

In Kosovo, thousands of young people voted for 300 seats in parliament, at the Kosovo Convention for representatives of local government. This vote is at the same time a confirmation of the political will of the citizens of Kosovo for democracy and self-determination, as well as proof of their civic maturity. The Albanians of Kosovo, despite pressure and difficult conditions, are showing that they remain committed to the democratic path. The electoral process, although held in extraordinary circumstances, is an important political and national event. It expresses the determination to build representative institutions and to defend political and national rights. The multi-party elections in Kosovo deserve broad greetings and solidarity. (Continues on page 6)

Have these privatizations been delayed, what consequences will there be if they are postponed? In fact, as long as the progress of solving the housing problem remains unclear for the majority of the population, the question becomes even sharper. Thousands of families live in state-owned apartments and are eagerly waiting to know the conditions of their privatization. Especially for low-income groups, every further delay adds uncertainty and makes family planning more difficult. In this sense, government promises must be accompanied by concrete deadlines and clear legal decisions. Otherwise, postponing privatization will only feed new dissatisfaction and a sense of injustice. (Continues on page 4)

Once again, something is being presented as an exodus which, as from the very words of H. ll[?], is taking this beginning and may make public the present right to stay. The success achieved in the latest Albanian resistance strengthens the conviction that the mass exodus must be fought by all means. Is this a way out? No. On the contrary, uncontrolled departure empties the country of its liveliest forces and seriously harms the future. For this reason, a firm stance against the exodus is needed, and a policy that creates hope, work, and security for citizens. If these are lacking, then despair drives people to leave. But the answer cannot be surrender in the face of the exodus. SHKËLQIM BROJAI (Continues on page 6)

With the diplomatic personalities accredited in Tirana QUESTION: Can the wave of departures find its way by leaving through the Albanian coasts? ANSWER[?]: That will depend on many factors, but above all on the hope that Albanians will have for their future. If the economy stabilizes, if the institutions function, and if citizens feel that a more normal life is approaching, then the tendency to leave will also decline. We are convinced that Albania deserves sustained help and that it must not be left alone in this difficult period of transition. Our commitment is not declarative, but real. IASHININ KOCI[?] (Continues on page 5)

The vision[?] that P. Se should represent the people the country[?] has often been said and has become a daily argument in the political environment. In this sense this issue requires deeper reflection. — If politics turns into a chain of spontaneous actions, with strong emotional ups and downs, the risk is that the stability of decision-making will be lost. — If the strike is used as the only means of public reaction, without being supported by institutions and social dialogue, it can also produce unwanted consequences. — A day of silence, as a reminder of maturity and self-restraint, can serve as a necessary counterweight. The question: Can the wave of departures find its own path without heading toward the sea? This is the challenge of the time. If citizens lose faith in the perspective, in order, and in the real opportunities to live with dignity, then the tendency to leave arises. (Continues on page 2)

Helping title in reading) the implementation of the cleaning plan[?]. (Continues on page 3)