At its second national conference, with boundless self-praise for the past five years, the Democratic Party is accounting to the Albanian people for a dramatic balance sheet unprecedented in the country's history. In the report of its chairman, Mr. Sali Berisha, even those things that represent the destruction of the national economy and the public services system, the ruin of the people's well-being, the tarnishing of the country's reputation and identity, the deep political and social division, and, worst of all, the creation of an anti-democratic regime, were presented as achievements. Instead of carrying out a thorough analysis of the situation, he devoted himself to glorifying a power that rules through propaganda and police, through arbitrariness and corruption, through violations of freedoms and human rights. Instead of listening to the voice of the citizens, he tried to justify failures with imaginary enemies and attacks on the opposition. The Socialist Party considers it essential to open a new political process that will give the country the opportunity to emerge from the general crisis. Early parliamentary elections are the most democratic and peaceful way to restore sovereignty to the people. The Democratic Party, however, instead of accepting the verdict of the citizens, has begun the electoral campaign, using the state administration, the official media, and the entire machinery of power for partisan purposes. This is a clear sign of fear of the free judgment of the people. The Socialist Party calls on all citizens, political forces, and social organizations to unite in the demand for early elections, for the restoration of the rule of law, and for a democratic, social, and civilized Albania.

PRESS STATEMENT BY THE CHAIRMAN OF THE P-SË FATOS NANO Today's court actions ordering my arrest and that of my collaborators are the result of a politically and legally manipulated process aimed at striking the opposition. With fabricated charges, with the selective use of the law, and with the steering of investigations, the prosecutor's office has been turned into a public instrument for the legal elimination of political opponents. Instead of defending legality, it is being put at the service of a power frightened by the loss of popular support. This is not only a personal matter. The aim is broader: the intimidation of the opposition, the terrorization of the administration, and the warning to any citizen who dares to think differently. The Socialist Party and democratic public opinion will confront this offensive with calm, determination, and confidence in justice. Truth cannot be imprisoned nor condemned by staged verdicts. I call on institutions, intellectuals, social organizations, and friends of Albania to follow this process closely and to defend the minimum standards of the rule of law.

IN THE COURT OF CASSATION - The judiciary seeks the help of the press - SPECIAL FROM THE STATEMENTS OF CHAIRMAN BROZI As part of the proper efforts to inform the public, yesterday morning Mr. Zef Brozi, chairman of the Court of Cassation, appeared before journalists. When asked about the latest developments in the judicial system, he addressed the issues of the court's independence, relations with the other branches of power, and the role of the press. Mr. Brozi stressed that public opinion must be informed of the truth about judicial reform and that the press has an important mission in presenting the facts impartially. He pointed out that the judiciary cannot withstand political and administrative pressures on its own, and therefore seeks the understanding and help of the press. According to him, justice must remain independent and judges must not be placed under pressure because of their decisions. He warned that any breach of this independence seriously harms the rule of law. The meeting with journalists took place in an atmosphere of open questions and answers.

While political attention has focused on the debates of the day, the country is experiencing a visible electoral movement. The Democratic Party is using the state apparatus to consolidate its positions, while the opposition is trying to mobilize the electorate under conditions of an unequal climate. In towns and districts, meetings, promises, and staffing moves linked to possible elections are being observed. This shows that the campaign has in fact already begun, even though it has not been officially announced.

The harsh winter and political tensions have created an unusual atmosphere in the justice institutions. Hearings are postponed, communication is made more difficult, and above all the climate of political uncertainty weighs heavily. In these circumstances, court cases with political implications receive even greater public attention, feeding debate and doubts about the standards of decision-making.

Social discontent and a lack of responsibility in the administration have sparked protest movements and strikes in various sectors. Employees complain about wages, working conditions, and the arbitrariness of the managers. Instead of solving problems through dialogue and understanding, they are often allowed to worsen until open conflict erupts.

To His Excellency, Mr. Egon Klepsch President of the European Parliament Brussels Dear Mr. Klepsch, We cannot underestimate or downplay the echo and significance of your latest letter, in which concern is expressed about the democratic situation in Albania. At the same time, it also expresses important encouragement for all the forces that defend pluralism, the rule of law, and our country's European orientation. We greatly value the fact that the European Parliament follows developments in Albania closely and we consider this an expression of solidarity with the Albanian people. In the circumstances in which political tensions have increased in the country, civil liberties and rights have been infringed, and the opposition has been placed under continuous attack, the voice of Europe carries special weight. We will fight so that Albania deserves its integration into civilized Europe. This means working for functioning democratic institutions, for free elections, for independent justice, for a market economy with social sensitivity, and for a political culture of dialogue. Please accept our thanks for your interest and support. Respectfully.

Yesterday in Tirana Yesterday at 10:45 a joint action was carried out that drew the attention of public opinion. According to sources, the move was linked to an operation by state structures and to the debates it has sparked in public. The event was widely covered and gave rise to various political and social reactions.