Veliaj’s proposal passes committee, four former KLA leaders toward the “Honorary Citizen” title

Tirana’s Artistic-Cultural Commission has approved the proposal of Mayor Erion Veliaj to declare the four former leaders of the Kosovo Liberation Army “Honorary Citizens” of Tirana: Hashim Thaçi, Kadri Veseli, Jakup Krasniqi and Rexhep Selimi.

The proposal from the titles commission, chaired by historian Pëllumb Xhufi, comes at a sensitive moment for the four former KLA leaders. Veliaj’s proposal was approved unanimously.

As Mayor Veliaj put it: “Tirana is not only the capital of the Republic of Albania, but the center of Albanianness.”

After approval by the Artistic-Cultural Commission, the proposal continues the institutional procedures for review by the Tirana Municipal Council.

Motivations for the KLA leaders:

Hashim Thaçi

For his invaluable contribution to the Kosovo Liberation War, to its political representation and to Kosovo’s journey toward freedom and independence, with the steadfast support of the USA and Euro-Atlantic partners. For his special bond with Tirana and the strengthening of relations between Kosovo and Albania.

Kadri Veseli

For his invaluable contribution to the Kosovo Liberation Army and to Kosovo’s journey toward freedom and independence, with the steadfast support of the USA and Euro-Atlantic partners. For his special bond with Tirana and his dedication to bringing Kosovo and Albania closer together and to cooperation between them.

Jakup Krasniqi

For his invaluable contribution to the Kosovo Liberation War, to its political representation and to Kosovo’s journey toward freedom and independence, with the steadfast support of the USA and Euro-Atlantic partners. For his early bond with Tirana, as one of the centers of political and civic support for Kosovo.

Rexhep Selimi

For his invaluable contribution to the Kosovo Liberation Army and to Kosovo’s journey toward freedom and independence, with the steadfast support of the USA and Euro-Atlantic partners. For his special bond with Tirana, the capital that in the days of the war stood by Kosovo and its people.