KLA veterans react to protests in Tirana: Using our symbols for politics undermines the dignity of the war

During the 23rd day of protests in Tirana, symbols of the Kosovo Liberation Army also appeared at the gatherings.

This prompted a reaction from the head of the KLA Veterans’ Organization, Hysni Gucati, who in a social media post called for these symbols not to be used for political purposes. He described such an act as unacceptable and offensive to the dignity of their war.

“KLA veterans call on protesters in Tirana: Do not misuse the KLA’s symbols for political purposes

Prishtina, 22 June 2026 – The KLA War Veterans’ Organization publicly expresses its concern over the ongoing attempts at political manipulation and the instrumentalization of KLA symbols during the multi-day protest in Tirana.

It is unacceptable and insulting to the dignity of our war that, in the name of the KLA, individuals or groups speak and present themselves who for years have tried to diminish, distort, and devalue our liberation war.

The KLA Veterans’ Organization reiterates with full responsibility that the KLA’s cause is not and cannot be an instrument of any current political agenda or of narrow personal and party interests.

The KLA Veterans’ Organization calls on the organizers of the protest in Tirana to guarantee the integrity of the protest and not allow any attempt at manipulation, misuse, or false self-declaration in the name of former KLA soldiers or veterans.

The KLA is part of the history of freedom and sacrifice of our people and must be treated with respect, not for political gain,” Hysni Gucati.