Kosovo’s Prime Minister, Albin Kurti, has marked the 27th anniversary of the Dukagjin Epopee, honoring the bravery and sacrifice of those who resisted Serbian forces in Gllogjan.
Kurti emphasized that the resistance in Gllogjan symbolized the resilience of the people of Kosovo in their struggle for freedom until the nation was finally liberated from Serbian occupation.
A Historic Day of Resistance
“On this day, March 24, 1998, Serbian police forces launched an attack on the village of Gllogjan in Deçan, targeting a key stronghold of one of the most active armed groups of the Kosovo Liberation Army (KLA). From morning until evening, they faced fierce resistance centered around the Haradinaj family home,” Kurti stated.
Led by Ramush Haradinaj, who was wounded twice in the battle, the defenders included his brothers Shkëlzen, Daut, Frashër, and Enver, as well as their sister Mema, cousins Rasim and Bujari, nephew Kujtim Zeneli, and other KLA fighters. Despite being outnumbered, they successfully repelled the Serbian forces, inflicting heavy casualties.
Tribute to the Fallen Heroes
“The Gllogjan towers became a symbol of defiance as the battle spread to the homes of Smajl and Rasim Haradinaj, Zeqë and Ibrahim Mustafa, Xhafer Sadriu, and Islam Hasani. On that fateful day, three brave fighters—Gazmend Mehmetaj, Agron Mehmetaj, and Himë Haradinaj—made the ultimate sacrifice,” Kurti recalled.
He reaffirmed the nation’s everlasting gratitude to all those who fought for Kosovo’s freedom.
“The resistance in Gllogjan demonstrated the unbreakable spirit of the Kosovo people. We will always honor those who stood up for our liberation. Glory to the national martyrs and all who gave their lives for our homeland!” Kurti concluded in his statement.
