DIFFICULT, BUT NOBLE, THE STRUGGLE FOR A DEMOCRATIC SOCIETY From the speech of Dr. Servet Pëllumbi, deputy chairman of the PS, delivered at the KPD meeting The experience of these last few months has shown that the fate of democracy in Albania is tied to the fate of the socialists. It has shown that democracy cannot develop without socialism and that socialists will need a great deal of energy in order to devote themselves to it with full awareness and commitment. For this reason, the assessment made in the KPD that today the transformation of the PS into a major political force, its modernization and democratization, as well as the strengthening of this force’s influence among the electorate, are issues of not only party but also national importance, is fully justified. In relation to the position it takes toward the opposition, especially toward the PS, the current government has once again confirmed its anti-democratic character. Instead of being guided and controlled by the opposition, it has launched a frontal war against it, openly violating the norms of the rule-of-law and pluralist state. At meetings with voters and with party structures in the districts, everywhere the need has been raised for strengthening the organization of the PS, increasing the role of its forums, activating the membership, and opening up to intellectuals and specialists. This requires, above all, more responsibility, more discipline, more democratic culture, and a new spirit of work. Today we need a party capable of facing not only the challenges of the day, but also those of the future. An open, modern, civilized party, capable of communicating with the people and winning their trust. A party that does not close in on itself, but knows how to take on the great responsibility for the fate of the country. (to be continued on page 2)

TELEVISION THIS YEAR FLOUR AT 400 LEK PER KILO MALO SULI In mid-July of this year, Albania imported 6,500 tons of wheat at a cost of 995 thousand dollars. According to TV, with these figures the price of a kilogram of wheat should be around 16 lek. Thus, the cost of flour production cannot justify a price of 73 lek per kilogram either. If the television is telling the truth, then something is wrong with the market calculations. According to the television report, large quantities of wheat and flour are being imported into the country, yet the price on the domestic market continues to rise. This has caused great concern among citizens, especially among families with low incomes. On the other hand, specialists say that between import, processing, and trade there are many links that artificially inflate the price. If the TV calculations are correct, then flour at 400 lek per kilo is a clear abuse of the consumer. The responsible authorities must immediately investigate where the price increases and who is profiting unfairly.

TO ASK FOR WORK AND DEMOCRACY THE PEOPLE ARE INCAPABLE M.A.T The Socialist Party stands for real democracy If its leadership does not find a way out of the current situation, then it will lose the historic chance to be a decisive factor in the country’s political developments. The party must be in permanent contact with the people, with their problems and with their demands for work, bread, dignity, and democracy. It is essential that its forums be more active, more responsible, and more open to different opinions. Organization at the grassroots must be strengthened and all manifestations of bureaucratization, closure, and self-satisfaction must be fought. Only in this way can the PS become a credible governing alternative and win the broad support of citizens. Otherwise, disappointment will grow and will damage not only the party, but also the democratic process in the country itself. (to be continued on page 2)

Chronicle from the rally in Berci Bercati[?] is a major center in the Lushnja area. It is known for its traditions of work and culture. Hundreds of residents took part in the rally held there, expressing their dissatisfaction with the economic situation, unemployment, rising prices, and lack of order. The speakers criticized the government for its unfulfilled promises and for the worsening situation in the countryside and in the city. More commitment from the local authorities and more help for vulnerable groups were demanded. The participants stressed that democracy cannot be built on poverty and injustice. At the end of the rally, a call was made for better civic organization and support for democratic alternatives. (to be continued on page 7)

JOINT DECLARATION OF THE POLITICAL PARTIES

- It is not true that the Socialist deputies went shopping. They went to a kikololi[?] - FORCED REPUBLIC THE NEWSPAPER «KOHA JONË» DECEIVES PUBLIC OPINION - It is not true that the Socialist deputies went shopping. They went to a kikololi[?] -