Today, the streets of Tirana will echo with calls for justice for the former leaders of the Kosovo Liberation Army (KLA), who are being tried in The Hague on charges of war crimes and crimes against humanity.
The nationwide protest will begin at 5:00 PM in Skënderbej Square, bringing together thousands of citizens from Kosovo, Albania, and the diaspora.
During a press conference on October 14, the Chairman of the KLA War Veterans’ Organization (OVL-UÇK), Hysni Gucati, announced that former Albanian President Alfred Moisiu and BDI leader Ali Ahmeti will address the gathering. Gucati also confirmed that 60 buses will depart from Kosovo to Tirana to support the protest.
Taulant Balla, the head of the Socialist Party parliamentary group, declared that the majority’s MPs will back the demonstration and are expected to join the event.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Infrastructure and Energy announced that the Nation’s Highway (Rruga e Kombit) will be toll-free for 24 hours to facilitate travel.
On the other hand, the Democratic Party of Albania (PD) stated it will not participate in the protest. However, Fatmir Mediu broke ranks with Sali Berisha, confirming during Thursday’s parliamentary session that he will attend the rally.
The President of Kosovo, Vjosa Osmani, also expressed her support for the protest, reaffirming that the KLA’s war was just and legitimate.
Prime Minister Albin Kurti, through his party’s official page Lëvizja Vetëvendosje, voiced his stance on the event — while also taking a subtle jab at Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama over his lack of involvement.
This follows another protest held in The Hague on September 14, a day before the first defense witness, former U.S. Assistant Secretary of State James Rubin, testified before the Specialist Chambers.
