Prime Minister of Kosovo, Albin Kurti, marked the birthday of Jusuf Gërvalla with a tribute on Facebook, calling him one of the most important patriots, artists, and political activists in the political history of Kosovo.
Kurti recalled that although Gërvalla’s life was cut short at just 36 years of age, he left behind a rich legacy as a journalist, poet, writer, singer, and political activist—an extraordinary figure in Kosovo’s cultural and political life.
“Today is the birthday of Jusuf Gërvalla, the patriot, artist, and political activist among the most important in Kosovo’s political history. Born on October 1, 1945, in Dubovik, Deçan, he would have turned 80 today, had his life not been violently cut short by a political assassination organized by the Serbian state in 1982 in Germany, together with his brother Bardhosh and their fellow activist Kadri Zeka,” Kurti wrote.
He added that Gërvalla’s songs and poems have endured through time, carrying his example of national dedication and political depth. Kurti highlighted the song “Do të kthehem, nënë” (I Will Return, Mother), in which Gërvalla sings to his homeland with moving verses of hope and belonging.
“With this song in mind, beyond the pain carried by memories of his fate, it is truly remarkable that so many years later, Jusuf Gërvalla is still remembered and honored, including by visitors to his museum-home in Dubovik. Glory to Jusuf Gërvalla for his entire life and work!” Kurti concluded.
