TIRANA, June 23  /ATA/ The Organization of KLA War Veterans has expressed concern regarding ongoing attempts at political manipulation and instrumentalization of KLA symbols during the multi-day protest currently taking place in Tirana.

Through a public statement, Hysni Gucati, former chairman of the Kosovo Liberation Army Veterans Organization (OVL-KLA), described as unacceptable the use of the KLA’s name and symbolism by individuals or groups who, according to him, have over the years sought to diminish and distort the values of the liberation war.

“The Organization of KLA War Veterans publicly expresses its concern over the ongoing attempts at political manipulation and the exploitation of KLA symbols during the multi-day protest in Tirana.

It is unacceptable and insulting to the dignity of our struggle that individuals or groups who, for years, have sought to diminish, distort, and devalue our liberation war should speak or present themselves in the name of the KLA,” he emphasized.

According to him, “The Organization of the War Veterans of the KLA reiterates with full responsibility that the cause of the KLA is not, and cannot be, an instrument of any current political agenda or of narrow personal or party interests.”

Gucati further writes that “The OVL of the KLA calls on the organizers of the protest in Tirana to ensure the integrity of the protest and to not allow any attempt at manipulation, misuse, or false self-representation in the name of former KLA soldiers or veterans.”

He emphasizes that “The KLA is part of the history of freedom and sacrifice of our people and must be treated with respect, not for political gain.”

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