- Serious charges, politically decoded, are examining the Albanian state’s accusation - The withdrawal of the charge: political pressure, Cyriaka once again tied to it Tirana — Following yesterday’s notice, nine defense lawyers during last month’s government trial. On 11 July, the prosecutor’s office announced that it had filed an administrative suit against count Aranit Çela. According to the suit, the former prosecutor general had prepared an informant against the state with the aim of destroying the constitutional order. The lawyers defending Çela said that the proceedings were brought for political motives. Today, on 16.8.1994, during the course of this trial, the charge was withdrawn. Prosecutors said that the indictment had been based on an old piece of legislation, which they called Stalinist and incompatible with the new legal norms. The defense regarded this withdrawal as proof of the strong influence of politics over the justice authorities. There were many reactions in the courtroom, and it was emphasized that the case had been used for political pressure. It was underlined that the judiciary and the prosecution must break away from the practices of the past and act on the basis of law, not political orders. (Continued on page 8)

Tirana — A few days ago in Kavajë, three Greek citizens who had been arrested some time earlier in our country were released from prison. According to sources, their release has raised reactions and questions regarding the criteria applied by the relevant authorities. Public opinion has expressed concern about whether we are dealing with special treatment of foreign citizens, at a time when many Albanian convicts continue to serve their sentences. Legal circles say the decision was made on the basis of legal procedures, but the lack of a full official explanation has added to the suspicions and comments. (Continued on page 8)

Today, on 18.8.1994, during the normal course of daily activity and the service of the relevant public order police structures, several persons suspected of various criminal offenses were caught and detained. The Ministry of Public Order informs citizens that its structures will continue to monitor and crack down on criminal elements and calls on citizens to cooperate with the order authorities in maintaining calm and public safety.

Photo: Armando Babani

According to various reports, in yesterday’s court session strong statements were made by the defendant Altin Hoxha. In the courtroom, discussion focused on individual responsibilities, the procedures followed, and the way the investigative bodies handled the evidence. Those present reported open polemics and disputes between the parties. (Continued on page 8)

9:10. The judicial process begins after the positions of the Albanian student p[e?]-s. Albanian coordinator of the Greek Parliament’s Committee of Observers PRENËT O SHKOLLI SAT E SHITI MONO- PARIAK Continuing le [?] Partial text that is difficult to read in this part of the page.

Until yesterday evening, the center of the country remained relatively calm, but in the Pogradec district there were reports of numerous movements by public order forces. In the city of Durrës, increased checks were observed on the entry and exit roads. ** The spokesman for the government of Italy stated yesterday that Rome is following developments in Albania closely and is maintaining contact with representatives of international institutions. According to him, stability in the country is important for the entire Balkan region. ** Police sources reported that in several coastal areas groups involved in illegal trafficking have been targeted. Checks will continue in the coming days as well. ** The situation in the country’s main markets appears volatile. Prices of some food products have risen compared with last week. TELEGRAFICALLY In Tirana, a member of the municipal council called for a full investigation into a public tender, declaring that the procedures had not been transparent. The issue is expected to be reviewed at the next meeting. * Local officials in Fier said that recent rains have caused damage to some agricultural land, while farmers are asking for help to recover their losses. ** Education experts underlined the need to improve conditions in secondary schools before the start of the new school year. * A foreign delegation was received at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, where bilateral relations and economic cooperation projects were discussed. TELEGRAFICALLY In several districts of the country, young people are taking part in summer cultural activities organized by local government and youth associations. * At the southern border, control measures have been strengthened after reports of illegal crossings. ** Work on the reconstruction of a national road segment is expected to begin next week, official sources announced. * In a meeting with local business representatives, fiscal difficulties and entrepreneurs’ requests for procedural relief were discussed. TELEGRAFICALLY At the university hospital center, doctors requested more regular supplies of medicines and medical equipment. * In several neighborhoods of the capital, residents complained about prolonged interruptions in drinking water supply. ** Opposition representatives declared that the political climate remains tense and called for respect for democratic standards. * In the south of the country, work continues on rehabilitating irrigation canals before the rainy season.