Hague proceedings on obstruction of justice nearing conclusion, closing arguments schedule announced

The court case concerning obstruction of the administration of justice before the Kosovo Specialist Chambers is approaching its final stage, when the parties will present their closing arguments.

Hashim Thaçi, Bashkim Smakaj, Isni Kilaj, Fadil Fazliu and Hajredin Kuçi are accused in the proceedings.

According to a decision by the Kosovo Specialist Chambers, the closing arguments will be heard on September 10, 11 and 14. The hearings will begin at 9:30 a.m. and may continue until 5:15 p.m.

The Specialist Prosecutor’s Office will have three hours to present a summary of its position and arguments.

Thaçi’s defense has been allocated two hours, while Smakaj’s defense team will speak for one and a half hours. Kilaj’s and Fazliu’s defenses have each been allocated two hours, while Kuçi’s will have 45 minutes.

After the parties have finished their submissions, the Prosecution may present its reply within one hour. The Thaçi team will then have 30 minutes for comments.

The defenses of Smakaj, Kilaj, Fazliu and Kuçi will each have 15 minutes to respond.

During the proceedings, Judge Christopher Gosnell may direct questions to the parties at any stage.

After the closing arguments conclude, the trial panel will retire to review the evidence and arguments before issuing its judgment.

The case concerns allegations of interference with Prosecution witnesses. All the accused have pleaded not guilty.

This case is separate from the trial of Thaçi, Kadri Veseli, Rexhep Selimi and Jakup Krasniqi on war crimes and crimes against humanity charges.