The Kosovo Judicial Council (KJC) has sent a letter of condolence to the High Judicial Council of Albania, namely its president Ilir Rusi, following the murder of judge Astrit Kalaja.
The Kosovo Judicial Council assesses that "this serious event constitutes a major blow not only to the Albanian justice system, but to the entire society, violated "gravely undermines the fundamental values of the rule of law and the safety of those who serve law enforcement."
A serious incident occurred today at the Court of Appeal of General Jurisdiction in Tirana, where Judge Astrit Kalaja was shot and killed. Two other people, parties to a court case, were also injured in the shooting.
According to the announcement of the Tirana Local Police Directorate, the incident occurred at around 15:40, in the premises of the Tirana Court of Appeal of General Jurisdiction. During a court session, it is suspected that citizen E. Sh., 30 years old, a party to the proceedings, fired a firearm at judge Astrit Kalaja and citizens RK, 65 years old, and EK, 45 years old, father and son, the other party to the proceedings.
"With deep sorrow, we received the shocking news of the murder of Judge Astrit Kalaja, who tragically passed away while performing his duty in the service of justice. This serious event constitutes a major blow not only to the Albanian justice system, but to the entire society, seriously undermining the fundamental values of the rule of law and the safety of those who serve law enforcement. On behalf of the Kosovo Judicial Council, the judges and the judicial staff, we express our most sincere condolences and full solidarity with his family, colleagues and the entire judicial system of the Republic of Albania. In this difficult moment for Albanian justice, we share your pain and underline the need for institutional and social reflection. May the memory of his life and work remain a lasting example of inspiration and respect in the service of justice.", the condolence letter says.
