The Kosovo Specialist Chambers has scheduled the final judgment in the case against former Kosovo Liberation Army (KLA) leaders Hashim Thaçi, Kadri Veseli, Jakup Krasniqi, and Rexhep Selimi for September 16, citing the extraordinary complexity of the proceedings.
The trial generated 29,238 pages of transcripts, while the Trial Panel heard testimony from 270 witnesses and admitted 5,467 pieces of evidence.
In a statement, the Specialist Chambers explained that the extension was “absolutely necessary” due to the complexity of the case and the vast amount of evidence that must be thoroughly examined.
According to the court, the additional time is needed to ensure a comprehensive, well-reasoned, and fair assessment of the evidence, as well as to prepare a detailed written judgment. The court also stressed that its summer recess did not affect the scheduling of the verdict, noting that judicial work continues throughout the recess period.
However, defense lawyer Artan Qerkini argued that the postponement was unjustified, saying the Trial Panel had sufficient time to reach a decision.
“The Trial Panel has been dealing only with this case. It is difficult to believe that the judges were not evaluating the evidence throughout the proceedings. We have consistently argued that the right to a trial within a reasonable time has been violated, and this delay only prolongs the defendants’ ordeal,” Qerkini said.
Attorney Skender Musa said the extension could be justified given the volume of evidence but argued that the continued detention of the four defendants should now be reconsidered.
“Considering the amount of material, the postponement is understandable. However, if the court wants to demonstrate that it acts in accordance with the law, it should also review the detention measure,” Musa said.
During closing arguments, the Specialist Prosecutor’s Office requested 45-year prison sentences for each of the four defendants, while the defense teams called for their acquittal.
Thaçi, Veseli, Krasniqi, and Selimi have been in pre-trial detention since 2020. They are charged with war crimes and crimes against humanity, while the trial formally began in April 2023.
