‘All-people’s’ protest in Pristina against The Hague verdict for Thaçi and the KLA leaders

KLA veterans’ organizations have called for a so-called “all-people’s protest” at noon today in Skënderbeu Square in Pristina, against the first-instance verdict of the Specialist Chambers in The Hague against Hashim Thaçi, Kadri Veseli, Jakup Krasniqi and Rexhep Selimi. Citizens have begun gathering in the square ahead of the rally’s official start.

Kosovo Police have deployed forces in the square area and asked participants not to wear masks, not to throw objects and to respect officials’ instructions. This morning, police held an informational meeting with veterans’ representatives and warned there could be temporary traffic restrictions in the capital’s center.

The veterans’ organization announced the protest yesterday, calling The Hague verdict “unjust.” Alongside the call for protest, it presented a platform demanding coordination of institutions, political parties and civil society, as well as of Albania, the region’s Albanians and the diaspora, a parliamentary debate and legal review for amending or repealing the Law on the Specialist Chambers.

The call for protest comes after the incidents of the first night following the verdict’s announcement, when stones were thrown at the Government building and the EULEX base, a small fire was lit near the European mission and arrests were made. Meanwhile, yesterday evening’s protest with the slogan “Ne u moje ime” passed peacefully, with the presence of Thaçi’s and Veseli’s sons.

The U.S. Embassy today advised citizens to avoid Skënderbeu Square and its surroundings. Mobilization continues on social media through the “Liria ka emër” platform.

Source: Danas