The Specialist Prosecutor’s Office (SPO) has completed its presentation of evidence in the trial of former Kosovo President Hashim Thaçi, Kadri Veseli, Rexhep Selimi and Jakup Krasniqi. The trial opened on 3 April 2023.
In presenting its case, the SPO has called testimony from 125 witnesses live in court. Around 3,000 SPO exhibits have been admitted into evidence in multiple languages. And the SPO has made a total of 1,430 filings in this case to date.
Messrs Thaçi, Veseli, Selimi and Krasniqi are charged with crimes against humanity and war crimes, including the murders of more than 100 victims and the illegal detention and torture of hundreds of victims.
According to the indictment, the crimes were committed against hundreds of civilians and persons not taking part in hostilities from at least March 1998 through September 1999 in multiple locations across Kosovo and in northern Albania. More than 150 victims are participating in this trial and are represented by Victims’ Counsel.
“The willingness of witnesses to testify has been extremely important and I recognise their courage in giving evidence in court,” the Specialist Prosecutor said.
The Specialist Prosecutor also expressed gratitude to all who have made it possible for the SPO to present its case.
“Crimes like murder and torture must always be confronted,” Ms West continued. “It is essential for Kosovo that the rule of law and the judicial process in this court are respected, so that the integrity and fairness of the proceedings are maintained, and the truth can be established.”