Pristina, December 16, 2022 – The Ombudspeson, Mr. Naim Qelaj, based on his mandate for the protection and supervision of human rights, is closely following the events in the north of the country and expresses his concerns about the created situation.

Ombudsperson draws the attention of each authority within its scope of work that has constitutional and legal responsibility, to carefully harmonize all actions in respect of human rights and freedoms.

Mr. Qelaj said that based on the information he received from the media about the arrest and detention of former police officer Dejan Pantic, he requested official information from the competent authorities to ensure that the rights of every arrested or detained person are being respected.

Ombudsperson emphasizes that the placement of barricades in the north hinders the free movement of citizens, in this case it is the duty of the authorities to find ways to ensure the respect of this right as soon as possible.

Mr. Qelaj estimates that order and law must be restored throughout the country, enabling the realization of civil rights as well as the full protection and respect of human rights and freedoms guaranteed by the constitution of the Republic of Kosovo.

Ombudsperson values the commitment of all local and international mechanisms, to ensure in this way the basic right to safety, life, free movement, the right to work and other guaranteed rights.