Lead article DURRËS SOCIALISTS DEMAND AN END TO HUMAN RIGHTS VIOLATIONS - Fatos Nano is imprisoned and we demand that he be among us, the country first under a serious political crisis. - the trial initiated against Funi by the opposition is not an act, and it is being dragged out from day to day. FULL SUPPORT FOR MP FATOS NANO The next day, the attention of the city of Durrës focused on the idea of solidarity with the representative of the socialist right and the deputy of zone 101-103 and secretary of the KPD of the PS and MP Fatos Nano, who some time ago was convicted on the false accusation of “theft and abuse of office”. In the central square of Durrës, where the protest was taking place, hundreds and hundreds of citizens had gathered, coming from the city’s neighborhoods and from the surrounding districts, to express their full support for Fatos Nano. The placards read: “Freedom-democracy”, “Fatos Nano must be released”, “Down with political revenge”, “Justice for the opposition”. The participants described his arrest and conviction as a purely political act and an alarm signal for the state of democracy in the country. It was emphasized that the imprisonment of political opponents, pressure on the opposition, and the restriction of fundamental freedoms are driving Albania toward a dangerous polarization. Various speakers called for respect for human rights, the independence of the judiciary, and the guarantee of genuine political pluralism. They underlined that without dialogue, without understanding, and without social peace, the country cannot move forward. On behalf of local socialist organizations, a call was made to continue the democratic and civic protests until justice is done and political revenge stops. (continued on page 2)

The next day, the attention of the city of Durrës focused on the idea of solidarity with the representative of the socialist right and the deputy of zone 101-103 and secretary of the KPD of the PS and MP Fatos Nano, who some time ago was convicted on the false accusation of “theft and abuse of office”. There were many discussions and various theses regarding the arrest and imprisonment of the opposition MP. The many speakers called this decision political and contrary to the elementary principles of the rule of law. In the end, a declaration was adopted calling for the immediate release of Fatos Nano and respect for the rights of the opposition. (Continues on page 2)

- Statement by the leadership of the Eurosocialist Youth Forum of Albania The Socialist Party and the government of this coalition are facing a relentless wave of attacks and slander in the public information media, organized according to a carefully considered strategy to strike at every critical voice. This well-known method of political denigration is being used to cloud the truth and avoid accountability before the law. The statement says that many of the accusations raised against opposition representatives have no factual basis and serve only to heighten the political climate. The Eurosocialist Youth Forum expresses concern about the use of institutions in the service of political struggle and about the subordination of public debate to narrow party interests. According to the statement, the country needs social peace, fair political competition, and respect for democratic rules. Any attempt to criminalize the political opponent seriously harms the country’s future. (Continues on page 2)

Honorary President of the Socialist Party Kristaqi [?] Kërçyku as presented, 2 pages PROTEST Honorary President of the Socialist Party Kristaqi [?] Chairman of the Presidency of Parliament, 2 pages Being an important social force with influence throughout the country and knowing our responsibility for promoting peace and stability, we consider the latest political developments quite worrying. The imprisonment of the opposition MP Fatos Nano and the use of double standards toward political forces are clear signs of a deep democratic crisis. We believe that Albanian democracy cannot be built on revenge and exclusion. Respect for the law must be the same for everyone, and the courts must not become an instrument of political struggle. The protest held expressed the will of the citizens for justice and for the return of a climate of dialogue. (Continues on page 2)

PROTEST Statement by the President of the Republic of Albania, Mr. Pjetër Arbnori By also supporting the feelings of the Albanian people and standing firmly by the principles of democracy, we express our deep concern over the recent events. Political trials cannot be the path to building a democratic state. If today a deputy is imprisoned for political reasons, tomorrow no one will be safe in their freedom and rights. For this reason, we call for an end to discriminatory practices and for respect for the Constitution, the laws and international standards. Albania needs national reconciliation, not division; dialogue, not revenge; independent justice, not political direction. (Continues on page 2)

In the face of repeated complaints from citizens about violations and abuses by some public order officers, requests for an administrative investigation and disciplinary measures have increased. Residents claim that some procedures have been followed selectively and to the detriment of ordinary citizens. Intervention is sought from the central authorities to restore trust in the public order institutions and to ensure equal treatment for everyone. MILANET BELLA

Explanations are sought from the Minister of Agriculture Presidency of the People’s Assembly TIRANA During this period, a broad debate is taking place on land and property issues in the countryside. Many cooperative members, former owners and peasant families are asking for clarification on the implementation of the law and its concrete effects on everyday life. According to the discussions, the lack of complete documentation, differing administrative interpretations and local conflicts have created uncertainty among residents of rural areas. It is requested that the Ministry of Agriculture provide clear answers and help solve the inherited problems. The main issues concern land distribution, property restitution, use of pastures and support for agricultural production. TIRANA

SHKODËR In recent days, a serious incident at the Muriqan border post has come to light, where according to preliminary data there was a clash and serious consequences. The full circumstances of the event have not yet been made public, but the authorities are investigating. Local sources speak of high tension in the area and concern among residents. CORRESPONDENT, “Zëri i Popullit” Seven unresolved krokosa for Serbia PREMË If the government is missing [?] LAVT RINO