Burjani on the KJC decision: The return of Serbian judges can only take place through a competitive process

The Kosovo Judicial Council has rejected the request by Serbian judges and support staff to cancel their resignations and return to their positions.

Following this decision, the KJC recommended that Acting President Albulena Haxhiu relieve them of their duties.

The European Union opposed this position, expressing “deep regret” over the decision.

Jurist Blerim Burjani told “Bota sot” that the return of judges and prosecutors who have resigned should take place only through a new competitive procedure and in accordance with the law.

He stressed that such a return cannot be achieved through political intervention or an apology, as holders of judicial office must preserve their independence and uphold professional ethics.

“To establish the legal basis, a new competition must be announced. Anyone may apply, but for individuals who left voluntarily by resigning, returning is more difficult. Therefore, the return cannot be secured through a political decision, but only through a professional procedure.

Judges and prosecutors must not engage in politics or become its tools. Respect for professional ethics is essential; otherwise, they cannot be part of the KJC.

There can be no return based solely on an apology, because the laws in force are clear: when duties, working hours and the contract are not respected, the employment relationship may be terminated at any stage.

This element must be taken seriously, since nothing can be secured for free and through politics,” Burjani told the newspaper.