Thousands have protested daily in Kosovo since Sept. 17 over war-crimes convictions of former President Hashim Thaci and three other rebel leaders, who were sentenced to 13–25 years in prison. The rallies add pressure on Prime Minister Albin Kurti amid a political crisis.
The rallies have largely been peaceful. Protesters call the verdicts unjust, saying the Kosovo Liberation Army fought Serbian oppression during the 1998–99 war; the court convicted Thaci, Kadri Veseli, Rexhep Selimi and Jakup Krasniqi.
A political deadlock lasting more than 18 months has blocked the election of a president and led to two early elections. Kurti faces an Oct. 6 deadline to reach a deal with opposition groups on the next president or another early election will be held. Protest organizers want government financial support and lawyers for the convicted men. Kurti has promised to help them but has not responded to the opposition's call to limit the Hague court's reach.
