Kosovo MPs are reviewing an amended law to curb the powers of the Kosovo Specialist Chambers. The European Union and United Kingdom have warned lawmakers to seek international advice before they adopt these changes. This legislative move follows the conviction of four high-profile Kosovo Liberation Army officials by the Hague-based war crimes court.
International warnings follow KLA convictions
The EU Office in Kosovo said the amendments raise serious concerns regarding Kosovo’s international obligations and compliance with basic rule of law principles, specifically judicial independence, the protection of victims and witnesses, the continuity of procedural rights, and effective accountability. The EU also stated that the amendments raise concerns regarding their constitutionality. The British Embassy in Pristina expressed fear that the proposed amendments will do nothing to serve Kosovo’s essential interests and will undermine its relations with international partners and supporters.
The legislation originated from the opposition Democratic Party of Kosovo after the court convicted Hashim Thaci and Jakup Krasniqi, who received 25 years in prison each, along with Kadri Veseli and Rexhep Selimi, who received 18 and 13 years respectively. These convictions for arbitrary detention, cruel treatment, torture and murder followed weeks of protests. MPs initially voted for the amended law on October 6 during a rushed procedure following violent protests outside the parliament building.
Divided political response in Pristina
MPs remain undecided on whether the bill is adequate in its current form. Vigan Qorrolli, an MP from the ruling Vetevendosje party, argued at the Parliamentary Commission for Legislation that a redraft is needed. "Our position as the political majority is very clear; we believe that a new legislative initiative – drafted with care and through joint parliamentary participation – would be the most responsible way to address this issue," Qorrolli said. However, PDK MP Blerta Deliu-Kodra said that parties agreed to pass the bill but there is no consensus on amending it. She stated, "we have agreed to pass the bill, but there is no consensus on amending it. We must proceed with the bill as it stands, and subsequently, we will enter the amendment process."
