Minister Andin Hoti has said he is not fully convinced that the changes to the Law on the Specialist Chambers of Kosovo will guarantee the necessary protection for the people being tried in The Hague. He considered the European Union’s reactions to be expected, given that the drafting of the changes was not preceded by consultations with the EU.
Të lidhura
None found
Speaking at a press conference after the Government meeting, Hoti stated that the EU’s objections related precisely to the request for prior consultation regarding the interventions in the law.
The Law on the Specialist Chambers was voted on last week in the Assembly of the Republic of Kosovo, while Hoti said that even Prime Minister Kurti had previously expressed uncertainty about the impact of these changes.
“As for the European Union’s reaction, you have seen its reactions, in which these changes to the Law on the Specialist Chambers were described as unacceptable. The law was voted on last week in the Assembly of the Republic of Kosovo. As far as I can speak now on behalf of the Government, if I speak on my own behalf, I would quote a sentence of Prime Minister Kurti, said on the day the changes for the Specialist Chambers were voted. Prime Minister Kurti emphasized very well that we are not very convinced about this. However, I believe that the party that drafted the changes consulted with other actors and with the Appeal. As for this issue, we will see what strategy will be pursued. But I personally, as Andin, am also not very convinced that these changes will bring the necessary results to ensure proper defense. I am emphasizing that this is a matter belonging to those who are currently in The Hague,” said Hoti.
The minister clarified that the EU’s reaction also relates to the way the legal changes were prepared. According to him, this process foresees that consultation with the European Union take place in advance.
Meanwhile, the Government of Kosovo has decided to create a working group, which will draft a state strategy for the Appeal procedures in the case of the KLA four.
Hoti announced that the leadership of this group will be taken by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Glauk Konjufca.
He said that a date for the completion of the strategy cannot currently be determined, as its preparation depends on several factors. However, work must begin without delay and proceed carefully.
According to Hoti, drafting the strategy requires special attention, so that haste does not lead to mistakes during this process.
