Serb List has called on NATO’s KFOR mission and the EU Rule of Law Mission in Kosovo (EULEX) to take additional measures to maintain peace, security and stability in Kosovo ahead of the expected September 16 verdict in the case against former senior Kosovo Liberation Army (KLA) leaders.
In a statement, the party urged KFOR and EULEX to use their respective mandates to take “all necessary measures” to ensure security across Kosovo, particularly in the days leading up to the verdict at the Kosovo Specialist Chambers in The Hague.
Serb List said the presence of international security missions should be increased in mixed communities, with particular attention to Serb-majority communities south of the Ibar River.
“We consider it necessary to increase the presence of international security missions in mixed communities, and particularly in Serb communities south of the Ibar, in order to act preventively and prevent any attempt to endanger the security of citizens, provoke incidents or disrupt public order and peace,” the party said.
The party also called on KFOR and EULEX to request that the Kosovo Police carry out its duties professionally, responsibly and impartially.
Serb List said the police should operate exclusively in accordance with the law while respecting the rights and security of all citizens, regardless of their ethnic background.
The party placed particular emphasis on preventive measures ahead of September 16, when the first-instance verdict is scheduled to be announced in the case involving Hashim Thaçi, Kadri Veseli, Jakup Krasniqi and Rexhep Selimi.
“We emphasize in particular the need for increased preventive action ahead of the announced verdict on September 16, with the aim of preventing tensions, provocations or potential incidents that could endanger peace and stability on the ground,” the statement said.
Serb List also called on Kosovo Serbs and other citizens to remain calm and avoid potential provocations.
The party urged citizens to act with restraint and responsibility and “not fall prey to potential provocations,” saying their conduct could contribute to preserving peace and security.
The statement concluded with an appeal for international missions to act promptly and responsibly to ensure the safety of all citizens, particularly in sensitive and mixed communities.
The call comes as Kosovo prepares for heightened public attention surrounding the Hague proceedings, which have been closely followed in Kosovo and among the families and supporters of the four former KLA commanders.
