Statement by the Socialist Party press spokesman Regarding the official statement of the head of SHIK, yesterday a special statement was distributed in the pages of several press organs and the radio-television service. Instead of proving that the article “New concept,” signed without a name, is not meant for the Minister of Order or for any other minister, Mr. Zhulali chose to use familiar methods of fear and intimidation against the press, aiming to strike at “Zëri i Popullit” and its authors. The independent press in Albania cannot be blackmailed with words, political accusations, or insinuations. If the head of SHIK thinks he can silence the opposition, the press, and the Socialist Party, he is gravely mistaken. To avoid any misunderstanding, we are republishing once again parts of Mr. Zhulali’s statement, where he himself admits that the matter is not about him. ... [?] In a situation where corruption, smuggling, and speculation are becoming serious wounds in our economic and political life, the Socialist Party will continue to denounce every abuse and every attempt to distort the truth. Neither “Zëri i Popullit,” nor Namik Dokle, and even less the Socialist Party can be intimidated.

Meetings of Dr. Servet Pëllumbi in Gjirokastër and Ficar The interest and willingness to hold broad discussions, not only with socialists but also with other voters, is a clear sign of the presence of the Socialist Party in the country’s political life. At the meetings held by Dr. Servet Pëllumbi with the residents of Gjirokastër and Ficar, the need for calm, dialogue, and respect for democratic norms was emphasized. Participants raised concerns about the economic situation, unemployment, emigration, and political tensions. The Socialist Party, it was said at these meetings, helps defuse the situation, while also preserving the values of democracy. ... [?]

— 52 dead — At least 31 people, including 3 crew members, have so far been identified as victims of the air disaster that occurred at Bucharest airport. According to the latest information from the Romanian agency ROMANO and Romanian radio and television stations, the Timişoara-Bucharest passenger plane of the company “Tarom” exploded moments after takeoff and crashed in a field near the airport. The cause of the tragedy is still unknown. Official sources said there were 49 passengers and 3 crew members on board. Rescue teams worked throughout the night to recover the bodies and find the black box. (Continued on page 7)

Depreciation of securities? During the past month, the deadline for returning funds from savings accounts was accompanied by a decline in interest for foreign-currency deposits and by an increase in demand for cash in circulation. The bank has announced that it is considering measures to stabilize the financial market. Two bank directors in prison Serious accusations were brought against two former directors of the banking sector, who are suspected of having committed serious financial violations. The judicial authorities are continuing their investigations. 500 complaints unanswered According to an announcement by civic organizations, more than 500 complaints made by citizens about administrative violations and bureaucratic abuses have gone unanswered. A faster response from the institutions is being demanded.

(READ ON p. 3) The cracked shell of Albanian Justice is completely deflated, the stench is everywhere! WHO ARE YOU, MR. MURKE? ... [?]