Kosovo Ombudsperson Naim Qelaj has said that following the verdict against former KLA leaders, the only path toward restoring justice is for the case to be reviewed by the Appeals Court.
In an interview with Klan Kosova, Qelaj said Kosovo’s institutions should pay greater attention and demand accountability regarding the actions and decisions of the Specialist Chambers.
“I believe that injustice has already occurred. The only possibility for restoring justice is for a correct decision to be made,” Qelaj said.
He stressed that a fair trial should not be merely a formal legal conclusion, but the result of an independent and impartial process capable of creating public trust.
“Public trust is essential. From the public reactions, I can conclude without a doubt that the Court has failed to create that trust among the citizens of Kosovo,” Qelaj said.
According to Qelaj, the defence should work vigorously on appeal, while professional support teams should also provide concrete arguments aimed at achieving a fair outcome.
“As long as the public is not convinced that the verdict is fair, justice has not prevailed — neither for the victims nor for the accused,” the Ombudsperson said.
Qelaj warned that if someone were found guilty despite being innocent, the consequences would be serious not only for the accused, but also for Kosovo’s legal and judicial system.
