The spokesperson for the Kosovo Specialist Chambers (KSC) in The Hague, Michael Doyle, stated that the President of the Court, Ekaterina Trëndafilova, had responded to a letter sent by the Acting Prime Minister, Albin Kurti.
Doyle explained that in her letter, Trëndafilova emphasized that decisions in judicial cases specifically regarding pre-trial detention—are made by the judges assigned to the respective cases, not by her as President of the KSC, reports Betimi për Drejtësi.
“A letter from Prime Minister Kurti was sent to the President in September 2022, and she responded. In her reply, the President generally highlighted that the KSC and its judges are independent in their work and conduct trials according to the legal framework of the KSC and the highest human rights standards. She also stressed that decisions regarding pre-trial detention are taken by the competent judicial panels in each case, and not by the President herself,” Doyle said.
Regarding ongoing trials at the KSC, Doyle noted that in the case against former KLA leaders, the trial will continue on Monday from 14:00 to 17:00, excluding a 45-minute broadcast delay.
He added that Hashim Thaçi’s defense plans to call three additional witnesses in this case. The testimony of Wesley Clark, the last witness the defense intends to call, is scheduled to begin on the afternoon of November 18. Additionally, an extra session has been scheduled on November 21, 2025, to allow Clark to complete his testimony.
Doyle also reported that a recent motion by the defense concerning the late provision of materials by the Prosecution was rejected, as the defense’s claims were not substantiated.
“The Trial Panel noted that ‘full and timely compliance by the Prosecution in providing materials is an important element and guarantee for the fairness of the proceedings and equality between the KSC and the Defense.’ The Panel observed that the Prosecution had not provided detailed notification of some materials and evidence in its possession, reminding them of the importance of including materials in the notification according to Rule 102(3). At the same time, the Panel determined that the materials were provided without delay and did not harm the Defense, rejecting the request,” he explained.
The Kosovo Specialist Chambers in The Hague holds weekly updates every Thursday at 14:30 via the online platform Zoom, providing updated information on ongoing judicial proceedings and court activities.
