THE MINERS' LIVES ARE IN DANGER... Government officials look healthy and are not afraid of going without bread It is the 8th day that the miners from gallery no. 7 continue their hunger strike. Yesterday we were informed that 700 miners are holding out in the galleries of Ballsh. It is truly terrible and inhumane to leave 700 workers underground, in the days when bread is needed, without food. But can government officials endure even one day without bread? They are healthy, and it seems the government officials have lost their fear of bread. More and more miners are joining the strike. Yesterday one of them had been appointed among the delegation of miners who presented their demands to the prime minister. Although he was on the verge of joining the strike, yesterday he merely listed the miners' demands to the prime minister and left determined. It is said that yesterday the prime minister appeared before the government with a smiling face, even though 700 hungry miners are on his conscience. You see, government officials are not afraid of bread! They say the government meeting is taking place today, but the miners do not have time to wait. They have begun a battle for their very lives. According to them, only full payment and the implementation of the agreements can get them out of the strike. They are approaching the limit of survival. (To be continued on page 3)

Smoked-out Zhulalist logic Besides the opposition, which criticized the government's amended budget, the PS presented its alternative yesterday with considerable eloquence and impact in the Assembly debates. Mr. L. Meksi opened the session by stating that the government had submitted the amended draft budget late because it had wanted to avoid unnecessary polemics. But this delayed amendment was made only after the opposition's reaction and under the pressure of the serious economic situation. In the debates, opposition deputies emphasized that the government has lost control of the economy and is playing with figures, while people are becoming poorer every day. During the debate it was said that the strategy pursued has failed and that development is being proclaimed where wages, bread and social security are lacking. The Socialists called for a different fiscal policy and investments in production. On the other hand, the majority avoided concrete answers. (To be continued on page 3)

"Death by threat" before Albanian justice The PS will also insist against the former military and political leadership accused of killing David Leka At the Tirana courtroom yesterday, the next hearing in the case of David Leka took place. Family members and representatives of the Socialist Party demanded that the incident be fully clarified and that the perpetrators be punished. During the discussions, the responsibility of state structures was mentioned and accusations were made of political protection for the perpetrators. Lawyers for the plaintiff's side emphasized that the evidence is sufficient to bring the process to a conclusion. There was tension in the courtroom and repeated interruptions. The case has aroused great public interest. IN THE COUNTRY Kastriot... (To be continued on page 5)

Last night it was announced that the Confederation of Trade Unions of Albania supports the demands of the Bulqiza miners and condemns the government's dismissive stance. According to the statement, the situation that has arisen is a consequence of the failure to implement agreements and of the deep social crisis. The document says that the miners' demands are legitimate and affordable for the state, if there were political will. The Confederation calls on the government to immediately enter into serious talks with representatives of the strikers. (To be continued on page 3)

For the government's regime Albania remains poor while the government talks about reforms. The authorities did not respond in time to the miners' demands and pushed the situation toward confrontation. The published analysis stresses that the main responsibility lies with the government, which did not respect the agreements made with the workers. The article brings reactions from the field and describes the worsening economic situation, shortages, and insecurity for the miners' families. (To be continued on page 3)

The two years of Sali Berisha's rule have come under harsh social criticism. The published figures on victims and serious incidents present an alarming picture. The article summarizes some of the most serious events and links them to the political climate of the time. The author points out that behind each case lies the absence of the rule of law and impunity. Below are examples of the cases mentioned in the press. (To be continued on page 3)

Midis e Madhe Besa, the virtue of Albanian tradition, faced with blood feud. The piece gives concrete cases of families in isolation, who have been living for months unable to leave their homes. Partial interventions by the police and by peace-makers are mentioned, but without complete results. The phenomenon is presented as a serious social wound. (To be continued on page 3)

"The sensational landing in Paris of the PAD deputy, who holds the mandate by force, has brought to light suspicious behavior and connections..." The article deals with political controversies related to a PAD representative and his conduct abroad. (To be continued on page 3)

- Because in Libofshë the Socialist is in the majority - Because in Libofshë the Socialist could win the mandate - Because at the origin of this crime stood and was supported on 26 July, if the clergy had wanted them to win - average, if they had wanted to win, would have given the others more votes than on 26 July, if it had taken place Libofsha - Ladorisht is presented in the political analysis as an area where the will of the voters was distorted. The article raises questions about the use of violence and administrative interference in the electoral process. (To be continued on page 3)

On Friday, the PS began a round of visits across the country. Yesterday meetings were held with citizens and supporters in several districts. The discussions focused on the economic situation, unemployment, and attitudes toward the government. Representatives of the PS stated that they will increase contact with the grassroots and organize political and civic activities in the coming days. (To be continued on page 8)

PSD deputy K. Hyseni declared yesterday that another case has occurred that proves the misuse of posts and political intrigue. The article continues with accusations and mutual reactions. (To be continued on page 8)