Kosovo’s Constitutional Court Judges Sworn In

In the presence of President Fatmir Sejdiu, Kosovar leaders and international dignitaries, Kosova’s first appointed judges to the Constitutional Court took their oath to serve and protect the Constitution of the Republic of Kosovo. 

The historical event took place on June 26th, 2009 at the Office of President of Kosovo and was attended by the Prime Minister Hashim Thaci, Jakup Krasniqi, President of Kosovo Assembly, Pieter Feith, ICR/EU Special Representative in Kosovo, and a host of Kosovar and international distinguished guests. 

The nine judges represent Kosovo’s multi-ethnic society and the international community they include from Kosovo: Mr. Enver Hasani, Ms. Iliriana Islami, Ms. Gjyljeta Mushkolaj, Mr. Kadri Kryeziu, Mr. Ivan Cukalloviq and Mr. Altay Suroy.  The international judges on the Constitutional Court  are represented by Mr. Roberto Carolan (USA), Mr. Snezhana Botusharova-Doicheva (Bulgaria), and Mr. Almiro Simoes Rodrigues (Portugal).

President Sejdiu noted, “The Constitutional Court is a unique institution for Kosovo and for the citizens. With the establishment of the Constitutional Court we have set in place a cornerstone in Kosovo’s democratic development.”

At the first meeting of the Constitutional Court Judges, Enver Hasani was elected by his colleagues to serve as President of the Court. Hasani later noted “This is an honor to serve with such distinguished colleagues. The Constitution is the shield that protects all citizens of Kosovo. By serving and protecting Kosovo’s Constitution we are provided with an opportunity to ensure that Kosovo is governed by rules and not by men.”

The Constitutional Court will begin to review cases in the coming months.  Already twenty-five cases have been submitted by Kosovar citizens and institutions for the Court’s review.