Pristina: Protests in support of former KLA leaders continue for 14th night

Protesters gathered for the 14th consecutive night in Skënderbeu Square in Pristina, expressing support for former leaders of the Kosovo Liberation Army. The gathering was held under the slogan “Not in my name.”

In recent days, similar protests have been held not only in the capital but also in other cities across Kosovo. Participants have opposed the verdict and called for justice for the former KLA leaders.

Meanwhile, Kosovo’s Assembly approved a declaration on the verdict issued by the Specialist Chambers in The Hague against Hashim Thaçi, Kadri Veseli, Jakup Krasniqi and Rexhep Selimi. The document received 99 votes in favor, with no votes against or abstentions.

Through the declaration, the Assembly expressed concern over the first-instance verdict, the lack of transparency and violations of the standards for a fair trial.

Lawmakers deemed unacceptable the finding that a common criminal purpose existed, as well as the responsibility attributed to each of them on the basis of this conclusion.

At the same time, the Assembly called on state institutions to take the necessary measures to protect the truth and the integrity of the liberation war. The declaration also calls for the preparation of a joint state strategy encompassing legal, institutional and diplomatic steps.