Thousands of citizens have filled the squares of Pristina to march in defense of the former KLA leaders who are being tried in The Hague, KosovaPress reports.

Citizens interviewed by KosovaPress expressed optimism about the release of Hashim Thaçi and the others, while describing the Specialist Court as unjust.

Muhamet Elshani, who had come to the capital from Prizren, said that the former KLA leaders did not commit crimes and urged the Kosovo government to dissolve the Specialist Court after the protest.

“From this protest we expect those scoundrels in The Hague to understand that the people support them and that they did not commit crimes. We also expect something else—that our government, which has closed its eyes and ears, should make a decision after this protest to dissolve that court that is committing injustice. This is our hope, that they will return,” he said.

Also part of the protest was Mefail Elshani, former deputy commander of the KLA’s 60th Brigade, who said he expects the release of his fellow fighters.

He considers the trial in The Hague to be a fabricated process by Serbia and Russia.

“God willing, only a fair trial, because that alone unites the people, not political parties... This is purely political, it is not justice... I believe so and hope with all my heart,” he said.

Meanwhile, Mehmet Hoti from Rahovec said he is seeking justice for the former KLA leaders.

“God willing, justice,” he said briefly.

At the march organized by “Freedom Has a Name,” thousands of citizens are participating, including the President of Kosovo, Vjosa Osmani.