A powerful wave of solidarity is set to rise in Tirana, as thousands of Albanians from across the region prepare to gather for a historic nationwide protest in support of the former leaders of the Kosovo Liberation Army (KLA), currently on trial at The Hague.
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| Screenshot of Shkelqim Hajdari being interviewed by RTV Dukagjini |
“From all the information we have gathered from Albania, Kosovo, North Macedonia, and some areas of Montenegro and Preševo, the participation tomorrow will be spiritual and brotherly — a true union of Albanians,” Hajdari stated.
“We have ensured that there will be dedicated parking areas near the square for all our brothers who are coming to join us. The entire Skënderbeu Square will be secured by the police, and all the costs of the protest are being covered voluntarily by citizens,” he added.
A Protest Rooted in National Solidarity
This protest, which Hajdari described as “the first truly pan-national demonstration held in Tirana’s Skënderbeu Square,” aims to send a message of unity and justice. The event is being organized in support of the four former KLA leaders currently facing trial in The Hague for alleged war crimes committed during and after the Kosovo War.
For many Albanians across the Balkans, these figures — once central in the struggle for Kosovo’s liberation — are viewed not as criminals but as heroes who fought against oppression. Hajdari emphasized that the goal of the protest is to show the world that Albanians stand together in defense of their freedom fighters.
“The four men being tried there are innocent, and the world will come to know it,” he declared passionately.
Massive Turnout Expected from Across the Region
According to the organizers, participation from Kosovo will be particularly strong. “Based on the data we have, around 60 to 70 buses will arrive from Kosovo alone, not counting private vehicles,” Hajdari revealed. This figure adds to the growing anticipation that tens of thousands of people will fill Tirana’s central square, waving national flags and chanting slogans of unity and justice.
The protest, although organized quickly, has gained remarkable traction across social networks and Albanian communities abroad. Supporters have shared messages of encouragement, seeing the event as a symbolic moment for all Albanians to reaffirm their shared history and values.
A Peaceful, Non-Political Demonstration
Importantly, Hajdari clarified that no active politicians will speak during the event, underlining that the protest belongs to the people, not political parties. “This is a citizens’ initiative. No political figure will take the stage — only the people’s voice will be heard,” he affirmed.
The protest will include symbolic acts of remembrance and solidarity, including banners, chants, and possibly songs that highlight the shared sacrifice of the Albanian nation during the 1998–1999 war.
Police in Tirana have reportedly coordinated with the organizers to ensure a peaceful and secure environment, with traffic diversions expected around the main city center during the gathering.
The Broader Context: Justice, Memory, and Identity
The trials in The Hague have stirred intense emotions across Albanian-speaking regions. Many see them as a continuation of what they perceive as an unfair international approach toward the Kosovo conflict — one that has disproportionately targeted former KLA figures while neglecting the crimes committed by Serbian forces.
For supporters like Hajdari, the upcoming protest is not merely about defending individuals, but about protecting national dignity. “Our message is one of peace, unity, and justice,” he said. “We are not against the law — we are for the truth.”
Analysts note that the demonstration could mark a turning point in how Albanians across different states express their shared political and cultural identity. The expected turnout — possibly exceeding 50,000 participants — reflects the enduring emotional connection between Kosovo’s struggle and the broader Albanian identity.
Conclusion: A Historic Gathering for a Common Cause
As the sun rises over Tirana tomorrow, Skënderbeu Square is expected to transform into a sea of red and black, echoing with chants of “Liria ka emër” — Freedom has a name. Whether one views it as a political statement or a patriotic gathering, the event will undoubtedly serve as a reminder that the question of justice for Kosovo’s liberation heroes still resonates deeply within the Albanian nation.
The protest’s peaceful nature and broad participation could also send a strong message internationally — that Albanians remain committed to justice, truth, and unity, standing shoulder to shoulder in defense of those they believe fought for their freedom.