Haxhiu calls for an in-depth investigation into Arlinda Zekaj’s murder

Kosovo Assembly Speaker Albulena Haxhiu has reacted to the murder of Arlinda Zekaj, who was killed last night in Vitomiricë, Peja. She called on the responsible institutions to conduct a full investigation into the case.

Haxhiu said she was deeply shaken by Arlinda’s murder. According to Haxhiu, Arlinda was shot just minutes after returning home from the police station, where she had reported domestic violence.

In a statement published by the Kosovo Assembly, Haxhiu recalled that three days before the incident, Arlinda had addressed the Peja Prosecutor’s Office, saying: “I hope the day never comes when you and the responsible institutions are forced to account for yourselves only after my life has been taken.”

Haxhiu stressed that the circumstances of the case call for an investigation that goes beyond the murder itself and also examines how her reports were handled, how the risk was assessed and what measures were taken to protect the victim. She said every possible institutional action or failure to act must be reviewed and, if violations are found, the appropriate responsibility established.

The Assembly Speaker said that, as part of the Assembly’s oversight role, she would ask the relevant parliamentary committees to assess how mechanisms for protection from domestic violence and the prevention of femicide are functioning. Particular attention, she said, would be paid to risk assessment and coordination between institutions.

“It is our responsibility to ensure that the laws we pass are implemented and that shortcomings are addressed before they cost more lives. I extend my most sincere condolences to Arlinda’s son and all her loved ones,” Haxhiu said.