Inquiry commission into Arlinda Zekaj’s killing begins preparations for investigation

Members of the parliamentary inquiry commission into the killing of Arlinda Zekaj pledged to carry out their work professionally and in the public interest. Commission Chair Burim Ramadani proposed that members submit their ideas for the steps to be taken by Wednesday, with substantive work beginning on Friday and an action plan being approved.

Deputy Chair Adnan Rrustemi said they would approach the issue with dedication, full responsibility and professionalism. He said the commission was mandated to investigate in detail any action, inaction or failure by the responsible institutions to fulfill their legal obligations, with particular focus on the case of Arlinda Zekaj.

“The Inquiry Commission is, of course, mandated to investigate in detail and professionally. I agree with the commission chair that we, as members, should approach this phenomenon professionally first and then focus particularly on the case of Arlinda Zekaj. We will investigate and verify in detail every action, inaction and failure by the responsible institutions to meet their legal obligations. I express my dedication and commitment to addressing this issue professionally and with great, full responsibility,” Rrustemi said.

Commission member Besa Kabashi Ramaj of the PDK stressed that state responsibility must begin when a woman seeks protection, not only after she has been killed.

“Our task is not to replace the justice system, but it will be very important to ensure institutional and political accountability based on facts and evidence. Therefore, we will submit the detailed action plan by Wednesday. It is important that everything be completed accurately and as quickly as possible. Our responsibility as a state does not end with the official who handled the case; it also extends to the leaders who had a duty to ensure that our state functioned. The state’s responsibility does not begin when a woman is killed, but when she seeks protection,” Rama said.

LDK MP Doarsa Kica Xhelili said members of the commission had a duty to make every effort in their investigative work.

“The late Arlinda said everything that we cannot say today. Our task is to work hard on this inquiry commission,” she said.

The other members, Adelina Tërshani and Eman Rrahmani, also pledged to act fairly and in the service of the common good.

The next meeting will be held on Friday. The action plan is expected to be discussed, and reports have also been requested from the Ministry of Justice and the Ministry of Internal Affairs, with the aim of clarifying the actions taken.