ASH accuses VLEN of hypocrisy over the Tetovo tragedy, highlights Kasami’s and Mexhiti’s roles in government

The Alliance for Albanians has responded to VLEN’s statements regarding the Tetovo tragedy, describing the coalition’s remarks as an expression of political hypocrisy.

According to ASH, VLEN must first clarify the involvement of its leaders, Izet Mexhiti and Bilall Kasami, in the government at the time before seeking institutional accountability and justice. The party stressed that the 14 victims of the tragedy must not be turned into a subject of political confrontation, as their families have the right to learn the truth and receive justice.

The full response:

VLEN now appears to have concluded that the Tetovo tragedy requires institutional accountability and that the public is “owed an answer.”

However, before speaking about morality, justice and responsibility, VLEN must answer a simple question to the citizens: where were you at that time?

Izet Mexhiti and Bilall Kasami, two of VLEN’s current leaders, were part of the government for which they now act as though they had no connection whatsoever.

During that period, Izet Mexhiti also held the position of deputy leader of DUI. For this reason, the current use of this tragedy to attack others, while ignoring the political role and responsibility of the people who currently lead VLEN, represents the clearest form of political hypocrisy.

Fourteen lost lives cannot be used either for propaganda or as an instrument in battles between political parties. The victims’ families deserve the truth to be uncovered and justice to be served. Justice cannot be demanded only when it concerns a political opponent, while being forgotten as soon as responsibility touches VLEN’s current leaders.

Therefore, before accusing others, VLEN must answer the citizens:

Where were Izet Mexhiti and Bilall Kasami? What political responsibility did they assume at the time? What did they demand be clarified in this case? And why do they now act as though this event has nothing to do with them?

The demand for justice is an obligation. But seeking it while leaving out one’s own political and institutional role constitutes unprecedented hypocrisy.