Smakaj’s defense: Instructions mentioned during Thaçi’s visit did not undermine witnesses or justice

At the Kosovo Specialist Chambers in The Hague, the defense continued presenting its final submissions in the case in which Hashim Thaçi, Bashkim Smakaj, Isni Kilaj, Fadil Fazliu and Hajredin Kuçi face charges of criminal offenses against the administration of justice.

Attorney Jonathan Elystan Rees, who represents Bashkim Smakaj, began his closing statement by challenging the prosecution’s interpretation of the expressions used by Smakaj and Thaçi during their visits.

According to him, instructions such as “show him,” “tell him” and “simplify it for him so he does not mix things up” do not contain the elements of a criminal offense, contrary to the prosecution’s claim.

Rees argued that these words have no connection whatsoever to compromising an effective investigation, the safety of witnesses or the administration of justice. He stressed that requests for brief and clear answers are ordinary instructions, commonly used in similar settings around the world, and cannot be interpreted as undermining witnesses or the justice process.

The attorney added that Bislim Zyrapi, whom the prosecution claims was influenced, told prosecutors that his testimony had not been discussed with Smakaj.

According to the defense, there is no legal prohibition against meetings between them, as Smakaj and Zyrapi have been friends for years.

All the accused are following the hearing via videoconference: Thaçi from The Hague, while the others are joining from Kosovo.

A day earlier, the prosecution concluded its presentation by seeking prison sentences for the accused, while Hashim Thaçi’s defense requested his release.