TIRANA, February 17 – Thousands of citizens gathered today in Prishtina to march in support of former leaders of the Kosova Liberation Army (KLA), who face a total of 180 years in prison according to the Special Prosecutor in The Hague.

The march, held under the slogan “Justice, not politics” at Skanderbeg Square of Prishtina, brought together participants from Kosovo, Albania, and the diaspora. Participants demanded justice for the four former KLA leaders – Hashim Thaçi, Jakup Krasniqi, Kadri Veseli, and Rexhep Selimi – who currently face trial in The Hague.

The event also drew Kosovo state leaders and prominent political figures, including President Vjosa Osmani, BDI leader Ali Ahmeti, and Socialist parliamentary group head Taulant Balla. Among the demonstrators was the son of former President Thaçi.

During the march, the crowd chanted “KLA” and “Justice for the KLA,” waving national symbols and holding supportive banners.

On stage, well-known rapper Lyrical Son (Festim Arifi), part of the “Freedom Has a Name” platform, opened the march with a patriotic song. A three-generation performance by Ilir Shaqiri, his son Korab, and his grandson also took place.

The gathering comes at a sensitive moment in the Hague trial, while supporters of the former KLA leaders describe the proceedings as unjust and politically motivated.

/a.p./