Kosovo’s Speaker of Parliament, Dimal Basha, has issued a strong reaction following reports about his co-authorship of a 2012 academic study that portrayed the Kosovo Liberation Army (KLA) as an organization linked to criminal networks.
Basha stressed that his authorship is limited only to Chapter Three of the publication, which focused on the spread of fundamentalist Islam in Southeastern Europe, particularly in Kosovo. He underlined that he bears no responsibility for the other chapters, which contain controversial claims regarding the KLA’s alleged ties to organized crime.
“Here ends my responsibility regarding that study,” Basha declared. “I highly value the struggle of the KLA, and from my mouth or my hand, no content has been written—nor will ever be found—that contradicts this sacred value of our people.”
Basha further said that this is not the first time he has been attacked with what he called false accusations from certain circles, adding that the latest controversy is politically motivated.
In his statement, Basha pointed out that Professor Jana Arsovska, the primary author of the article, has already clarified in an email to media outlets that Basha submitted only Chapter Three for publication and bears responsibility exclusively for that section.
In his full post to citizens, Basha emphasized:
- The paper dates back to 2012, when he was still a student.
- His contribution was limited strictly to one chapter.
- He values the sacrifice of the KLA and the people of Kosovo for freedom.
- He apologizes to citizens who felt disturbed by what he described as a “false report.”
Finally, he urged the media to report fairly and accurately, especially on such sensitive issues that touch not only on his personal integrity but on the legacy of the entire people of Kosovo.
