Verdict against KLA commanders, Nik Gjeloshaj: A day of mourning for Albanians

Nik Gjeloshaj, who leads the Albanian Forum in Montenegro, has described the decision handed down by the Specialist Chambers against the former leaders of the Kosovo Liberation Army as deeply unjust.

In a statement to the media, he expressed concern that this Monday could mark a day of mourning for the Albanian nation, while also stressing that the defendants’ resilience and hope in the appeals court should become a source of strength for everyone.

Gjeloshaj noted that this is only an initial ruling and that the judicial process is still ongoing. He added that he believes the defendants’ innocence will ultimately be proven.

He strongly defended the nature of the KLA’s conflict, describing it as a defensive, liberating and entirely legitimate war whose ultimate goal was Kosovo’s freedom and independence.

The leader of the Albanian Forum emphasized that the former KLA commanders have never avoided facing international justice, neither fleeing nor going into hiding.

According to him, the Albanian community and the accused themselves have shown full respect for international mechanisms. They have faced the court openly and will pursue their legal battle through the highest levels of appeal.

In his message, Gjeloshaj also recalled Adem Jashari’s sacrifice, as well as what he considers the essential contribution made by the KLA and the United States of America to Kosovo’s journey toward liberation and statehood.

The head of the Albanian Forum also took the opportunity to clarify an earlier statement of his, which he said had been taken out of context and manipulated, making it unworthy of comment. He explained that the discussion had specifically concerned the necessity of respecting the decisions of international courts.

Concluding his response, he cited the example of Croatian General Ante Gotovina, who was initially found guilty by the court of first instance before being fully acquitted on appeal. “Our faith remains unwavering until the end; the pursuit of truth and justice will not stop!” Gjeloshaj concluded.