Mass Protests Erupt After KLA Verdict, Government Seeks Rectification
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Mass protests have erupted in Pristina today, with thousands gathering in 'Skënderbeu' Square to express support for former Kosovo Liberation Army (KLA) leaders recently convicted of war crimes and sentenced to decades in prison. Police have implemented heightened security measures and urged participants to demonstrate peacefully, refraining from wearing masks or using forceful objects.
The convictions, which saw former President Hashim Thaçi and Jakup Krasniqi each sentenced to 25 years, have drawn strong reactions across the country. In response, Prime Minister Albin Kurti and Besnik Hamza have met to discuss potential avenues for rectifying the Special Court's decision. The Albanian Parliament has also issued a statement asserting that the verdict cannot rewrite Kosovo's history.
Meanwhile, the Constitutional Court has consolidated several cases filed by the Democratic Party of Kosovo (PDK) challenging the legitimacy of the newly formed government and parliament. Parliamentary deputies have been given until today to submit their comments on the matter, intensifying the ongoing political and institutional challenges facing the country.