The Association of Journalists of Kosovo (AGK) has issued a strong public statement expressing deep concern over what it calls a coordinated smear campaign by members of Albin Kurti’s Vetëvendosje party. The attacks are reportedly targeting both the organization and its Board Chair, Xhemajl Rexha.
In its statement, AGK criticizes LVV deputies for responding to Kosovo’s dramatic 24-place drop in the Reporters Without Borders Press Freedom Index not with reflection, but by attempting to shift the blame onto AGK and Rexha.
Alarm Over Press Freedom Situation
Kosovo’s decline in press freedom rankings—now performing worse than all countries in the region—has triggered widespread concern. AGK warns that rather than taking responsibility or addressing the troubling reality, several LVV deputies have launched unacceptable personal and institutional attacks, including:
- Arbëresha Hyseni Kryeziu, who has reportedly personally targeted Rexha.
- Valon Ramadani and Arjeta Fejza, who have allegedly targeted the AGK as an organization.
Defense of Rexha’s Integrity
AGK defends Rexha’s reputation, calling him a journalist with over 20 years of experience and unquestionable professional integrity, who for the last four years has been at the forefront of defending journalists’ rights and promoting freedom of expression in Kosovo.
A Call for Political Restraint
AGK urges Vetëvendosje deputies to immediately stop all attacks on journalists and representatives of independent organizations and to address with seriousness what it describes as an unprecedented and alarming situation for media freedom in Kosovo.
“Freedom of expression and the protection of journalists are not political preferences—but fundamental values of a functioning democracy,” the statement concludes.
