“The Independent” writes about Thaci: The Manhood That Requires Release From The Hague

Their article begins by showing that the former president presented himself Wednesday as a statesman and peacemaker, while urging international judges to free him from what he called groundless charges -- including murder, torture and persecution dating back to his nation's fight for independence.

“throughout my life, I have stayed with the people of Kosovo, defending freedom, life and dignity. I have always been led by Western ideals of democracy, equality and justice”, Hashim Thaci told judges at the end of his nearly three-year trial in Kosovo's Specialised Chambers.

On the other hand, the article says supporters at the court's public gallery at the beginning of Thaci's speech were pushed against the glass wall that separated them from the courtroom to greet the former president before being reproved by security guards. One man, says the article, was seen wiping his tears while Thaci spoke.

Prosecutors have sought a maximum sentence of 45 years for Thaci and other defendants, Kadri Veselin, Rexhep Selimi and Jakup Krasniqi. Thaci also faces a separate trial on charges of intimidation of witnesses that will begin later this month.

In his final statement before the court, Thaci, who has always insisted he is innocent, said the only right “would be my full release from charges”.

“all that time, the only power I had was the power of my voice”, he said.