The Padua meeting tells the detractors of the Socialist Party and the left-wing electorate that 18 December is predetermined . In the name of the National Council of the Antifascist National Liberation Veterans of the Nation and the Kosovo Veterans, the Presidency of the Association of the Politically Persecuted, the National Committee of the Veterans of Independence, and the Committee of Veterans of the United Workers’ Organization, delegations participating in the 20th anniversary commemoration of the founding of the Organization of Veterans of Europe gathered in Padua, Italy, and discussed the situation in Albania. The special report pointed out that political discrimination against the Socialist Party and its electorate constitutes a violation of democratic norms, that the results of the local elections of 26 July are predetermined, and that the climate created toward the left is unacceptable. The delegates called for the political rights of all citizens to be respected, for the activities of opposition forces not to be obstructed, and for a free and fair electoral process to be guaranteed. It was emphasized that Albania needs social reconciliation, political coexistence, and a return to democratic normality. (Continued on page 4)

Peasant community in Sofia (Note) Sofia is turning its showcase toward the West and is trying in every way to show that everything is changing in the Bulgarian capital. But behind the facade, everyday life remains difficult and ordinary people find it impossible to cope with rising prices. In the city’s open markets, villagers bring their produce, but transport is lacking, middlemen drive prices down, and profits remain small. Meanwhile, there is unemployment, insecurity, and little hope for a quick improvement in the city. (Editorial note)

AGAIN: THE LAW ON AGITATION AND PROPAGANDA In Kosovo, the custom is rough, and in Shkodër, with osme. Term-lawfulness?! In any case, it remains clear that some political circles are trying to revive the spirit of punishment for speech and conviction. This article on “political crimes” is being used as a tool of pressure against political opponents, presenting public debate as a threat to order. It can be called whatever the government of the day wants, but in essence it is the same mentality: striking at different thinking. Instead of democratic openness, fear of words is being brought back. For democracy, this is a step backward.

Addressed to [ ? ] To Doctor Ibrahim Rugova President of the Democratic League of Kosovo PRISHTINË The Chairman of the Initiative Committee for Coordinating the Activities of the Veterans of the Antifascist National Liberation War and the Veterans of the National Liberation War of Kosovo and Metohija, on the occasion of the killing of the well-known activist for the national cause and the distinguished personality of Albanian culture and education, Prof. Anton Çeta, expresses the deepest condolences to the family, the LDK, and all the people of Kosovo. Glory to his life and work! (Continued on page 9)

THE POLITICAL ACTIVITY OF THE HOLDERS OF POWER IS IMPOSING LEFT-WING CHOICES ON US On Tuesday, the deadline for the formalization of 22 Socialist Party councillors expired. The published figures show that the Socialist Party’s candidacies in many areas have faced administrative obstacles, while in some cases direct pressure has been exerted on its supporters. The Socialist Party declares that it will take part in the elections, but considers the situation created unacceptable and calls on public opinion to react against injustice. In conclusion, it is emphasized that only free and fair elections can give the country legitimate representation and a political way out. (Continued on page 8)

“Seeks” to determine the burden publicly The process of yesterday’s denial with refuting statements continues. Instead of being given political arguments, labels and pressure are used against those who think differently. In some areas, citizens have been prevented from freely exercising their right to vote, while the administration has been placed at the service of bias. This situation is accompanied by a climate of nervousness and intolerance, which harms the democratic process itself. (Continued on page 8)

To be such • To be laughed at THEY’RE GOING DOWN WHEN THE DISAPPOINTED ARE CHOOSING THE LOCAL ELECTIONS! According to “RD”... In Monday’s issue of the newspaper “RD”, in the “Current Affairs” section, under the bombastic headline “No one blocked the vote!”, its author tried to refute the announcement made by the CEC about the failure to hold elections in several polling stations. To make this article as “convincing” as possible, the author also tried to invent a story about “ballot box blockades,” “threats,” and “sabotage,” mixing in names of villages and people as well. In fact, according to the official communication of the CEC and the data coming from the field, in some voting areas the process did not take place normally because of irregularities, pressure, and lack of conditions. You will hear more as long as you live!

The Trade Enterprise of the Igfa Organization is seeking offers for the sale of a nose selector, with [ ? ] hours, exor ca 1,100, for the scrap value of a universal selector. Requested: 1 - a bank or a price. 2 - one day earlier. 3 - an insurance offer. 4 - the Trade Enterprise will sell the corner with boxes. 5 - Financial guarantee required. Interested persons or firms should present themselves at the Economic Directorate “Shqipëria”, “Hasan Ceka” street, address of presentation: Dëshmorët e [ ? ], Tirana. The enterprise does not pay compensation.

READ ON PAGE 4: PRESS CENSORSHIP REQUIRES THE ACCEPTANCE OF THE SOCIETY IN THE COUNCIL OF EUROPE AND OTHER INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS

We do not seek privileges but the respect we deserve On Wednesday, in the offices of the Association of Politically Persecuted People of Albania, a meeting was held with representatives of several branches to discuss the treatment of former political prisoners and their social problems. The participants asked that state institutions not leave them forgotten and that concrete measures be taken for employment, housing, and compensation. They stressed that they do not seek privileges, only the respect and rights that belong to them. (Continued on page 6)