August 28, 2015 – the journalist, Mentor Buzhala, in his article published in the ninth page of newspaper “Zeri” with the theme “Procurement Manger in Anti-corruption Agency has gained a tender in KEC” among other issues, erroneously mentioned Ombudsperson Institution, stating that: “Inconveniences with Mr. Preteni’s agents might not have neither the Ombudsperson Institution, since the Head of Procurement Unit in this institution is Ahmet Hasani”.

In order to clarify the public opinion and because of the truth, we would like to draw you attention on the fact that Mr. Ahmet Hasani is not an OI employee since May 2014.

Actually, on the base of regular vacancy announcement advertised on July 16, 2013 Mr. Hasani, was hired by OI for three months period (from October 7, 2013 up to December 30, 2013). As OI needed time for the recruitment procedures of new responsible staff concerning management of procurement procedures, on January 20, 2014 an agreement has been reached with the Anti-corruption Agency (ACA) in compliance with Article 132 and 142 of the Constitution of Republic of Kosovo as well as according to Article 23 (paragraph 3) of the Law No. 04/L-042 on Public Procurement in the Republic of Kosovo. This agreement aimed definition of liabilities of both sides as per the support and development of procurement activities in OI, from Mr. Hasani, Procurement manager in ACA for an indefinite time frame.  On the base of this agreement Mr. A. Hasani has conducted part time job in OI, for the period January 21, 2014 until May 17, 2014 when OI decision on termination of Mr. Hasani’s assignment has entered into force.

Referring to the data revealed in this explanation, the Ombudsperson Institution points out that journalist’s allegations regarding the working period of Mr. Ahment Hasani with the OI and the relevance that he crafts between this and other issues exposed within this article, has nothing to do with the Ombudsperson Institution and as such is incorrect and unacceptable. Data and facts confirmation as well as their accuracy are preconditions for an objective and reliable journalism as well as mandatory for protection of ethics of the public communication.