Gërvalla formalizes the “Sali Çekaj” award for contribution to justice

Acting Minister of Justice Donika Gërvalla announced on Monday that, on the 70th anniversary of the birth of Hero Sali Çekaj, she has signed the decision on the bylaw that defines the awarding of the prize bearing his name.

She said that the “Sali Çekaj” award is dedicated to individuals who have made a special contribution in the field of justice in the Republic of Kosovo.

In a social media post, Gërvalla described Sali Çekaj as one of the most prominent figures in Kosovo’s history, highlighting his role as a “KLA commander, visionary politician and distinguished jurist”.

According to her, his dedication to the country’s freedom, together with his professional commitment, makes Çekaj a figure who inspires generations of jurists in Kosovo.

“The figure of Sali Çekaj, alongside that of the KLA commander and visionary politician, with unwavering dedication to the country’s freedom to the point of sacrifice at the front line, also shines as the figure of a rare jurist, courageous, sharp-minded and resolute. A figure that inspires generations upon generations of jurists in our country,” Gërvalla said.

She also stressed that this award, which bears the name of Hero Sali Çekaj, is intended to recognize individuals with a special contribution to justice, while at the same time honoring his work and legacy.

Commander Sali Çekaj, killed on April 19, 1999 in the line of duty in Koshare, as commander of Brigade 134, is regarded as one of the most distinguished strategists of the Kosovo war.

His patriotic activity had begun much earlier, both in Kosovo and in exile, from where he later returned to put on the uniform and join the war for freedom.