Fatos Nano addresses the Court of Cassation : Your verdict[?] these[?] in responsible to seize the trust of our fellow violators[?] local[?] justice and the rule of law Ladies and gentlemen of the court! I am here before you accused, not only innocent of the criminal offense charged against me, but as the victim of a sui generis procedure that is entirely political. Some passages and arguments that I will undoubtedly quote are already known to each of you, although not necessarily widely documented and established as they should be. I highly appreciate your participation in this unusual and decisive process, because I am convinced that everything I will declare here, before you, is intended to seriously help clarify the truth and affirm the rule of law. Gentlemen judges! Bëjës with voice and the parliamentary dance[?], transmanzimin[?] the release of an effort to de- ... [?] The extent of yesterday’s sentence on the basis of such an arbitrary decision, for which neither the organization of special structures nor the use of an entire police and administrative apparatus was spared in order to achieve it, can be understood only as an expression of a specific political interest in eliminating a significant opponent from the public scene. This is also clear from the time, manner and circumstances in which the process unfolded. Speaking before you, I am not defending only my personal freedom. I am defending the right of the citizens of this country not to see justice as an instrument of political revenge, but as a guarantee of the rule of law. People’s trust in the court is not won with prearranged verdicts, but with impartiality, courage and respect for the law. (To be continued on page 2)

- Interview with the chairman of the Tirana City branch of the PS, Musa Ulqini, given to our journalist - Question: On 30 July the main leaders of the PSSH and of the cause of the head of the American delegation together with the chairman of the PSSH will meet in order to define a preliminary declaration for the Tirana PES? Musa Ulqini: Yes. This is also the main reason why we have asked for the return of the Fatos Nano case to the center of public attention. Without resolving this issue, there can be no real normalization of political life. PSSH has made it clear that his imprisonment is not a criminal matter, but a political one. Question: Do you think there are real chances for a review of the decision? Musa Ulqini: We believe that public pressure, the reaction of public opinion, and the commitment of political and civic structures can bring about a change. We demand transparency, respect for procedures, and an impartial trial. (To be continued on page 2)

Why? The life of many has been burdened by this unjust act. For us, who have known Fatos Nano closely, the handcuffs on him are a blow not only to an individual, but also to the very hope for a more civilized politics. When alternatives are imprisoned, the country becomes morally poorer. The comrades, friends, collaborators and citizens who have followed his activity understand that this issue goes beyond a personal fate. It is a test for the institutions, for public conscience and for our ability to defend justice. (To be continued on page 2)

PSSH considerations and chairman Petrit Kalfa[?] Berat rally concludes A request for permission to hold a rally in Skënderbej Square has been submitted to the relevant authorities. The initiative is linked to the escalation of public reactions after the decision against Fatos Nano and to the aim of expressing opposition to the sentence in a civic manner. Representatives of the PSSH emphasize that the gathering will have a peaceful and democratic character. Meanwhile, it is reported that in Berat a rally in support of this request and of Nano’s release has concluded. (To be continued on page 2)

- Skënderbej Square is not allowed, but other squares are offered - Regarding the request submitted to hold a rally in the central square, the police authorities have issued a negative response concerning Skënderbej Square, proposing other alternatives. The decision is justified on public order and traffic grounds. The organizers consider this an unjustified obstacle to the exercise of the right of assembly. (To be continued on page 2)

Yesterday morning the president of the German parliament[?] held a meeting in the Albanian parliament. In her speech Mrs. Rita Süssmuth emphasized the importance of democratic dialogue, institution-building and cooperation between the two countries. She also underlined the need to respect pluralism and strengthen parliamentary culture. (To be continued on page 2)

Police arrive from the dormitories, they blocked the Inter-Parliamentarians in Gllovëz[?] The clash over the Nano issue appears to be spreading to other public settings as well. According to brief reports, the police intervened near the dormitories and prevented the movement of several participants identified as inter-parliamentarians[?]. The information remains unclear and the wording in the text is partly unreadable. (To be continued on page 2)