Protests erupt in Kosovo following the murder of Arlinda Zekaj

Citizens in Pristina have held protests demanding justice for Arlinda Zekaj, who was killed with a machete by her former relative-in-law, Albert Sylaj, in Vitomiricë, Peja. The incident has sparked intense scrutiny of Kosovo's judicial and law enforcement institutions.

Justice Minister Donika Gërvalla stated that the Prosecutor's Office had been informed of threats against Zekaj since October 10. Notably, the Chief Prosecutor was reportedly informed in writing of a direct death threat just two days before the murder. A report by the Ministry of Justice highlighted institutional failures, noting that a responsible prosecutor had refused to open a case for threats despite the documented risks.

In response to the case, two prosecutors, including the Chief Prosecutor of Peja, Lumturije Vuçetaj, and prosecutor Arlinda Nallbani-Gacaferi, have been suspended. Protesters are calling for the resignation of both the Minister of Justice and the Minister of Internal Affairs, demanding accountability for the failure to protect Zekaj despite her repeated pleas for help and documented evidence of danger.