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Montenegrin officials face criticism over Hague tribunal remarks
Civil activists and non-governmental organizations in Montenegro have issued a strong condemnation of statements made by Deputy Prime Minister Nika Đeljošaj and Deputy Speaker of Parliament Nikola Camaj. The officials reportedly relativized the first-instance verdict issued by the Kosovo Specialised Chambers in The Hague against Hashim Thaçi, Jakup Krasniqi, Kadri Veseliji, and Redžep Selimi.
Activists argue that the high-ranking officials' remarks undermine the rule of law and the legitimacy of judicial institutions. They stated that public officials should not equate individual criminal responsibility with an entire ethnic group, warning that such rhetoric sends a dangerous message regarding the nature of war crimes.
In response to the controversy, DNP leader Milan Knežević expressed support for the officials, stating that Đeljošaj and Camaj voiced the sentiments held by Albanians regarding the Kosovo Liberation Army (KLA). Knežević characterized the Hague decision as extremely unjust.
Entities
Hashim Thaçi · Milan Knežević · Nika Đeljošaj · Nikola Camaj
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [○ 1 SOURCE] NGOs and civil activists have condemned statements by Nika Đeljošaj and Nikola Camaj regarding the Hague tribunal's verdict. etv.me
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Activists claim the officials' remarks relativize the first-instance verdict against Hashim Thaçi and others. etv.me
- [○ 1 SOURCE] DNP leader Milan Knežević congratulated Đeljošaj and Camaj for expressing what he claims all Albanians think about the KLA. www.kurir.rs