- I call on the Ministry of Public Order and the other specialized bodies to provide the necessary explanations. This must be done as soon as possible, since very high-ranking state officials are being mentioned. SPECULATION DID NOT SERVE DEMOCRACY - More or less On 23 January 1993, through Albanian television, I learned of a very serious accusation against the Municipality of Durrës, concerning the dismissal of 400 employees of the City Cleaning, Landscaping and Cemetery Enterprise, on the claim that those dismissed were members of the Socialist Party. However, the truth is completely different. From the outset, I want to emphasize that this enterprise, as a whole, has been and remains extremely bloated. This situation arose as a result of a practice followed by the former system, according to which party militants and people with no connection whatsoever to this profession were placed in this sector. The very name of the enterprise clearly shows its bloated structure. To give an idea, I should say that this enterprise had employees in administrative services, depots, warehouses, drivers, assistants, guards, etc., who had nothing to do with the core work of cleaning. Under these conditions, the Municipality of Durrës was forced to reorganize the enterprise, in the interest of the city and the rational use of public funds. Those dismissed were not selected according to political beliefs, but according to job positions that proved to be redundant. In this context, those workers were also affected who did not show up regularly for work, who had broken discipline, or who were no longer genuinely needed by the enterprise. I am not in a position to say what proportion of those dismissed belong to the Socialist Party or the Democratic Party. But it is unfair to say that 400 workers were dismissed simply because they were Socialists. This is a serious accusation that harms the political climate and needlessly burdens relations among the political forces in our city. For this reason, I call on the Ministry of Public Order and the other specialized bodies to provide the necessary explanations. This must be done as soon as possible, since even the highest state officials are being mentioned. Speculation does not serve democracy. KASO LAFI

ECONOMY ON ASSISTANCE - PEOPLE AT A CROSSROADS Shkodër: 400 workers from the enterprises are out on assistance[?] - No warning of a hunger strike has expired for anyone. - From our correspondent MUSA KRUETJA The citizens of Shkodër are feeling more and more acutely the difficulties of everyday life. A large number of enterprises have been shut down, many others are operating at limited capacity, while unemployment has increased significantly. According to the data presented, around 400 workers from several enterprises are on assistance, and some of them are warning of a hunger strike if quick solutions are not found. From meetings with workers and enterprise managers, it emerges that the lack of raw materials, the limited market, and financial difficulties have brought productive activity to a standstill. In these conditions their families are facing major economic hardship. The workers are demanding that the state and local government intervene with concrete measures to avoid worsening the situation. They say that without an imminent solution, they will be forced to escalate their forms of protest. Shkodra, which once had a considerable number of manufacturing enterprises, is now facing a deep social and economic crisis. MUSA KRUETJA

PETITION President of the Republic Mr. Sali Berisha To the Chairman of the People’s Assembly Mr. Pjetër Arbnori Prime Minister Mr. Aleksandër Meksi Chairman of the Democratic Party Mr. Eduard Selami Chairman of the Socialist Party Mr. Fatos Nano Chairman of the Assembly of the Municipality of Tirana Mr. Agim Mero Editor-in-Chief of the newspaper “Rilindja Demokratike” Editor-in-Chief of the newspaper “Zëri i Popullit” We address this public appeal to all those who, in good faith, desire peace and understanding in the country’s political life. In a context where political debate is becoming harsher and crossing the boundaries of civic etiquette, we express our indignation at the language of hatred and the attempts to create dangerous divisions in society. We believe that press freedom and political pluralism cannot be used for slander, for denigrating the opponent, or for inciting conflict. We call on all political forces and the media to show responsibility, to preserve civility, and to contribute to the country’s democratic stability. This appeal is a call for self-restraint, for respect toward different opinions, and for returning political debate to institutional channels. (Continues on page 4)

As far as can be understood, preparations for tomorrow’s meeting are proceeding at their own pace. In various circles, comments are circulating about participation, the positions that will be taken, and the atmosphere expected to be created. The organizers express optimism, while others keep their reservations. According to sources close to the event, tomorrow movements and stances are expected that may draw the attention of public opinion. It remains to be seen what weight this meeting will have in further developments. PAVLI ÇOBA

In one part of the city, a festive scene has been created with flags and a special vibrancy. Citizens are taking part in the activities organized on the occasion of a local holiday. At the center of attention are the preparations and the reception of guests. The organizers say that this day has special importance for Peshkopia and its residents. The program includes cultural activities and festive gatherings. S. HAKI

The company “KRISTINA”, which administers the premises of the former SAVA 2 enterprise, announces that as of 10 February it will begin retail distribution of goods against coupons. For further information, please present yourself at the branch. Interested parties should present the relevant document. TR. I[c?]fronsu[?] “M 003-70 TIRANË”