The first witness in the “Thaci 2” case has claimed that Bislim Zyrapi had publicly admitted that he would be interviewed by the Specialist Prosecutor’s Office. He is continuing to answer cross-examinations by Thaci’s lawyer, Sophie Menegon.

The witness, who has the code 7, was revealed to be part of the staff of the Specialist Prosecutor’s Office.

The hearing, which began at 09:30, which is being broadcast to the public with a 45-minute delay, has been moved to private session several times.

Lawyer: Why didn’t he [witness Bislim Zyrapi] request protective measures?

Witness: Mr. Zyrapi is also a well-known and public figure in Kosovo and has testified before international courts even before he came here.

Lawyer: Did he give evidence in the courts in Kosovo before he came here?

Witness: I don't know, I can't tell you about that. But I know that he gave evidence before the Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia.

Lawyer: Is it true, to your knowledge, that Mr. Zyrapi commented on the events of 1998, 1999 and the organization of the KLA in the media?

Witness: "Yes”, answered witness code 7.

This witness claimed that Zyrapi had confirmed to the media in July 2019 that he would be interviewed by the SPO.

Lawyer: Do you agree with me that Mr. Zyrapi himself publicly agreed to be interviewed by the SPO?

Witness: Yes, I agree with you”, answered the witness.

Previously, witness code 7 had also been questioned by lawyer Sophie Menegon regarding Rrustem Mustafa’s testimony, as to why he had the testimony without protective measures.

During Thaçi’s defense cross-examination, the witness said that Rrustem Mustafa and Bislim Zyrapi were interviewed regarding the alleged interference in this case.

The five accused of obstruction of justice have pleaded not guilty before the trial panel.

Defense lawyers have also disputed these allegations, saying that the Prosecution's evidence does not prove the commission of the criminal offenses they are accused of.

Hashim Thaçi and the others are accused of allegedly providing instructions and confidential information to witnesses for the war crimes trial during their visits to The Hague in 2023.