A statue honoring the fallen hero Rizah Salihaj was inaugurated in the village of Zabërgjë, Klina, commemorating one of the first fighters of the Kosovo Liberation Army’s (KLA) 113th Brigade “Mujë Krasniqi.”
The unveiling ceremony was attended by Ramush Haradinaj, leader of the Alliance for the Future of Kosovo (AAK), Zenun Elezaj, Mayor of Klina, as well as fellow veterans and family members of Salihaj.
“He was among the most devoted and courageous soldiers—determined and unshakable in every battle. His heroism and legacy will forever serve as a reminder that the freedom of the homeland stands above all else,” Haradinaj wrote on Facebook.
Former Mayor of Klina, Sokol Bashota, who also attended the ceremony, said the statue was erected to honor and illuminate the sacrifice of the fallen hero.
“This statue, now standing in the heart of Zabërgjë, has found its rightful place—to remain forever upright on Albanian soil and under the Albanian sky. It adds another layer of beauty and pride to Zabërgjë and Klina,” Bashota wrote.
He emphasized that the statue represents a lasting symbol of commitment to the legacy of Rizah Salihaj and all other fallen heroes.
“It powerfully personifies the memory of this national martyr and his heroic deeds, along with those who gave their lives on the altar of freedom. Congratulations, Zabërgjë, on the statue of your immortal son!” Bashota added.
