The year 2025 is anticipated to be a turning point in the trial of former Kosovo Liberation Army (KLA) leaders Hashim Thaçi, Kadri Veseli, Jakup Krasniqi, and Rexhep Selimi. Criticisms of the judicial process, including accusations of non-transparency and bias by judges, have been raised by civil society and accredited lawyers.
Since the trial commenced in April 2023, the Specialist Prosecutor’s Office has heard testimony from 110 witnesses, with additional evidence submitted in written form. The prosecution is expected to conclude witness hearings by April 2025, with approximately 40 more individuals scheduled to testify in The Hague.
The Kosovo Institute for Justice (IKD) has highlighted procedural inefficiencies in 2024, noting delays caused by poor witness examination planning. “We observed unprofessional, leading questions from certain judges,” said IKD researcher Astrit Kolaj.
Kolaj also emphasized human rights concerns, citing temporary visitation bans imposed on the defendants. “Restrictions on visits violate their rights. Legal standards must be upheld to ensure that all accused are treated fairly,” he stated.
Accredited lawyers expect the trial to conclude in late 2025, marking the end of the largest judicial process in the Kosovo Specialist Chambers. “We anticipate a faster pace in 2025 as the prosecution has decided to forgo some witnesses and evidence, which should accelerate proceedings. A final verdict is expected by November or December 2025,” said lawyer Artan Qerkini.
Hashim Thaçi, Kadri Veseli, Rexhep Selimi, and Jakup Krasniqi remain in custody since 2020 on charges of war crimes and crimes against humanity.
