Judge Kalaja was killed in the courtroom/ Court of Appeals: Urgent security measures should be taken and derogatory language against justice should be banned

2025-10-06 20:06:00, Aktualitet CNA

Judge Kalaja was killed in the courtroom/ Court of Appeals: Urgent security

The Court of Appeal has reacted to the murder of Judge Astrit Kalaja in the courtroom. The reaction states that this serious event is a blow not only to the justice community, but to the entire Albanian society.

The Court emphasizes the urgent need to take measures to increase security in court premises and prevent such events.

It is also said that it is important to prohibit hate speech, denigration and threats against judges and the justice system.

Full reaction:

Today, Judge Astrit Kalaja was murdered in the courtroom.

This serious event is a blow not only to the justice community, but to our entire society.

On behalf of our fellow judges and the entire judiciary, we express our most sincere condolences to the family of our deceased colleague and to all those who feel the pain of this grave loss. Our hearts are with them at this painful moment and our solidarity is complete.

This tragic event imposes deep reflection on the need to strengthen security measures in judicial premises, guaranteeing the protection of judges, prosecutors, lawyers, parties and every citizen who enters the halls of justice. Security is an inseparable prerequisite for the independent and impartial exercise of judicial duty. We demand that the responsible institutions take immediate measures to increase the level of security and to prevent such events in the future.

Equally important is the prohibition of hate speech, denigration and threats against judges and the justice system. No expression of hostility, no word that incites violence or prejudice against persons fulfilling their duty should be tolerated. Hate speech is not an expression of freedom, but a tool that fuels intolerance and damages citizens' trust in justice. It is the duty of every institution, politician, media and every public representative and citizen to maintain the language of respect and dialogue.

At the same time, we appeal for social reflection, for unity, and for respect for justice as the foundation of the democratic order.

In this dark moment, we judges remain steadfast in our determination to apply the law with integrity and courage. Justice will not be intimidated. We will continue to serve with dignity, impartiality, and full faith that truth and the law are the strongest shield against any act of violence or hatred.

Together in pain, but also more united than ever in our commitment to justice./CNA