Political leaders and representatives of Kosovo’s partner countries paid tribute today at the grave of former President Ibrahim Rugova, marking the 20th anniversary of his death. Among those who honored Rugova were representatives of the Democratic League of Kosovo (LDK)—the party once led by Rugova—as well as President Vjosa Osmani.
Homages were also paid by ambassadors from the United States, France, Germany, and the United Kingdom, highlighting Rugova’s enduring international legacy and the strong ties he helped build between Kosovo and its strategic allies.
In addition to the homages, two separate commemorative academies were held during the day in honor of Rugova’s life and work.
The first academy was organized by the Democratic League of Kosovo, under the patronage of party leader Lumir Abdixhiku. The event was attended by senior party members, supporters, and members of the Rugova family, reflecting the historical and emotional bond between Rugova and the party he founded.
Later, a second commemorative academy was organized under the patronage of President Vjosa Osmani. Osmani, who was herself once part of the LDK, hosted the event as a state-level commemoration of Rugova’s contribution to Kosovo’s political and institutional foundations.
This academy was also attended by members of the Rugova family, as well as prominent figures including former President Fatmir Sejdiu and Prishtina Mayor Përparim Rama.
The separate commemorations underscored the broad respect for Ibrahim Rugova across Kosovo’s political and institutional spectrum, reaffirming his role as a unifying historical figure and a central architect of Kosovo’s path toward freedom, independence, and international integration.
