The case in which Hashim Thaçi, Bashkim Smakaj, Isni Kilaj, Fadil Fazliu, and Hajredin Kuçi are accused of obstruction of justice is expected to be transferred to the trial panel in November.
On 16 September 2025, Pre-Trial Judge Marijorie Masselot informed the parties that she intends to forward the case during the first half of November, reports Betimi për Drejtësi. However, the exact date depends on pending Court of Appeals rulings concerning motions submitted by the parties.
The defense teams have been instructed to submit their pre-trial briefs by 20 October 2025, while the Prosecution must do so by 19 September 2025.
- Isni Kilaj’s defense stated they do not oppose a later trial date, considering the interests of all co-accused.
- Thaçi’s lawyers argued they face limitations in conducting investigations, noting they would be ready to proceed in March 2026.
- Kuçi’s defense, represented by lawyer Alexander Admiraal, said they would also be prepared for trial in early 2026.
Background of the Case
Thaçi has been detained in The Hague since November 2020 on war crimes charges, and in December 2024, a separate indictment for obstruction of justice was confirmed.
- Smakaj, Fazliu, and Kilaj were arrested in Kosovo on 5 December 2024 and transferred to The Hague the following day.
- Thaçi received the new arrest warrant at the Detention Unit in The Hague.
- Kuçi was served with the confirmed indictment and made his initial appearance on 9 December 2024.
According to the indictment, Thaçi and the accused allegedly coordinated through several groups—the Fazliu Group (Fadil & Fahri Fazliu), the Smakaj Group (Bashkim Smakaj, Blerim Shala & Artan Behrami), and the Kilaj Group (Isni Kilaj & Vllaznim Kryeziu)—to obstruct official proceedings and influence witnesses of the Specialist Prosecutor’s Office (SPO).
The indictment claims these efforts took place during Thaçi’s detention visits on 2 July, 9 September, and 6 October 2023.
- Thaçi faces three counts of obstruction of officials, three counts of breach of confidentiality, and four counts of contempt of court.
- Kilaj, Smakaj, and Fazliu face charges of attempted obstruction and contempt of court.
- Kuçi faces two counts of contempt of court.
