FLASH
Shkruar nga Pamfleti
The High Judicial Council (HJC) met today, October 6, 2025, to take a public stand following the serious incident at the premises of the Court of Appeal of General Jurisdiction in Tirana, where Judge Astrit Kalaja was executed in the line of duty by Elvis Shkëmbi.
In a public statement, the Supreme Court of Justice expressed "deep sorrow" for the loss of the judge and severely condemned the crime that occurred in the courtroom, describing it as an act that strikes at the foundations of the rule of law.
" This serious act violates the foundations of the rule of law, the security of justice institutions and the public's trust in the courts ," the reaction states.
The Council emphasizes that respect for the independence and security of magistrates is the cornerstone of justice, and any physical attack on them constitutes a direct attack on democratic institutions and the legal order.
" Any act that attacks or violates the integrity of the courts damages everything we build with work and dedication. Violating judges is not only against individuals, but against the rule of law itself ," the KLGJ emphasizes.
In its position, the Council also condemns hate speech and public denigration of the figure of the judge, which according to it have contributed to the creation of a hostile climate towards justice.
" We condemn the use of hate speech, the denigration of the figure of the magistrate and the lack of respect for judicial activity ," the statement further states.
Finally, the High Judicial Council expressed its most sincere condolences to the family of Judge Astrit Kalaja and gratitude for the solidarity shown by institutions and citizens at this painful moment.
Full statement
With deep sorrow, the High Judicial Council learned of the criminal event of the murder, in the courtroom, and while on duty, of Judge Astrit Kalaja, Judge of the Court of Appeal of General Jurisdiction.
This serious act undermines the foundations of the rule of law, the security of justice institutions, and public trust in the courts.
The High Judicial Council strongly condemns the criminal act of murdering our colleague, and emphasizes that any act that attacks or violates the integrity of the courts damages everything we build with work and dedication.
The Council emphasizes that respecting the independence and security of magistrates is the cornerstone of the rule of law, through which the protection of the rights of judges and the public interest is guaranteed.
Violating the physical integrity of judges constitutes a direct attack, not only on the magistrates but also on the rule of law, democratic institutions, and the public interest and trust.
We strongly condemn such a criminal act, as well as the use of hate speech, the denigration of the magistrate's figure, and the marked lack of respect for judicial activity.
In these moments of collective pain, we express our most sincere condolences to the victim's family, relatives, and colleagues.
The High Judicial Council expresses its deep gratitude for the solidarity shown on this difficult day by all institutions, entities and individuals who publicly demonstrated their respect for the judiciary.
Lini një Përgjigje