– Taip Çela –
A magnificent monument stands in the centre of the village of Helmës in Skrapar to immortalize one of the most significant events of the National Liberation War, the First Congress of the Anti-Fascist Albanian Youth Union held from August 8 to 17, 1944, 80 years ago. This congress took place nearly three months after the historic congress of Permët, which decided to launch a general offensive to liberate the country from the nazi occupiers and their collaborators. In this context and within the reality of the historical developments for the fate of the country, the main burden of fighting fell on the youth as the most vital force of the National Liberation War.
Preparations for the congress in the district of Skrapar began with the Youth Activity of the District of Berat, which took place in Verzhezha from July 14 to 17, 1944. The activity assessed the work done and elected delegates for the congress. Among the delegates were well-known names from the district of Berat such as Moisi Zaloshnja, Qemal Mançe, Syrja Hysi, Hajri Shimi, Hetem Bakiasi, Liri Rogu, Kastriot Ylli, Veiz Kuçi, Tomorr Cerova, Sulo Dervishi, Hysen Rogu, Niazi Shkëmbi and others. The congress was attended by 285 delegates from all over the country, 72 of whom were women. All delegates, chosen democratically from partisan units and the field, were young men and women distinguished in battle and behind the lines.
To reach Lirëz, the delegates had to endure many hardships. Travelling on foot from all over the country, from the South to the North, and in secrecy to avoid enemy detection, they journeyed for 15 continuous days to reach the venue of the congress, which was organized under the leadership of the Communist Party of Albania. The General Commander Enver Hoxha delivered the keynote address. Among other things, he said: “neither the Italians, the Germans, nor the quisling traitors of the Balli Kombëtar and Legaliteti could mould the Albanian youth into their vile forms, poison them with their fascist and chauvinist methods, or lead them on the path of destroying all progressive social principles. Our youth said enough to them!” He further added: “I am fully convinced that you, the delegates of the Albanian Anti-Fascist Youth gathered in this congress, while your comrades and the entire National Liberation Army from Mirdita to the southern edges of Albania are engaged in bloody clashes with the Germans and traitors, will work and address the issues presented with the same seriousness as you have shown determination and bravery on the battlefield. I am convinced that you, after this congress, will work with even greater force to hasten the great victory against the occupier, conveying your progressive message to our heroic army in the rear and occupied territories. I am confident that you, the fighters of our legendary brigades, the heroic fighters of the occupied regions and the tireless fighters of the liberated zones, will multiply your energies and mercilessly strike the German occupier’s hordes.”
Nako Spiro delivered the report, providing a detailed analysis of the current situation and setting specific tasks for further combat operations. Sixty-five delegates discussed the report, including Nexhmije Xhuglini, Ramiz Alia, Piro Kondi, Xhoxhi Robo and others. Their discussions showcased the youth’s fighting spirit and commitment to pursuing the battle until final victory.
The congress conducted its sessions for 10 days. During these days, delegates attended lectures to enhance their ideological-political level and their abilities for propaganda work in all structures of the National Liberation Army. The congress concluded by electing its leadership. Nako Spiro was elected President. On August 19, the delegates dispersed to return to their partisan units and the field from which they came.
The Veterans’ Committee of the National Liberation War of the Skrapar Municipality, during this jubilee year of the 80th anniversary of the Liberation of the Homeland, has commemorated all the historical events of our district with seriousness and dignity. The National Liberation War remains the brightest chapter of our national history.
Taip Çela is the Secretary of the Veterans’ Committee of Skrapar
(Translated from the Albanian original)
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