Ends hearings on Thaci and others, fourth witness heard in private session

In the trial against former KLA leaders, Hashim Thaci, Kadri Veselini, Rexhep Selimi and Jakup Krasniqi were physically in the courtroom.

Jakup Krasniqi's lawyer, Aydan Ellis, has demanded that documents submitted by the prosecution be translated into Albanian, since his client does not read in English.

What we've got about this witness is two documents, one has to do with corrections, changes to interviews, statements, the other is new material. These have been granted protection only in English. And it's a big disadvantage for us, because Mr. Krasniqi doesn't read in English. It would be very helpful, especially when we receive instruction on these matters within limited time if they were in Albanian so that he could at least read. At least I'd say, one of these has to do specifically with corrections in previous statements, which is required to be made available so that the accused can read. This is the basis of this request that we have”, he said.

The specialised prosecutor, Matthew Holling, said they have no obligation to translate these documents.

It's impossible to make translations at the time set for the witness to be prepared. Therefore, we read it to the witness and once, it is not something we are obliged to give, and that is according to your instructions. It's not statements... so we don't have to translate. We recommend that the defense read it to the customers, as we do with witnesses to confirm the accuracy of the” statements, it has been expressed.

At today's court hearing where the fourth witness, the chief judge, Charles L. Smith has announced the court's findings regarding two figures of identification, which he said would be accepted.

The trial against former KLA leaders has started 3 April with the parties' opening statements.

Before the court, Thaci, Veselin, Selimi and Krasniqi have pleaded innocent to charges of alleged war crimes. They are located at The Hague detention centre since November 2020.