Other threats towards journalists, Shpresë Hasimi, Pejë, 01.03.2026
The Association of Journalists of Kosovo (AJK) strongly condemns the behaviour of the Mayor of Peja, Gazmend Muhaxheri (LDK), toward journalist Shpresë Hasimi of Betimi për Drejtësi.
According to video footage broadcast by the outlet, Mr. Muhaxheri is heard addressing the journalist in a dismissive and agitated tone before forcefully closing the door of the official vehicle he was entering. The incident followed a series of questions posed by the journalist regarding allegations of irregularities in the exchange of a multi-million-euro property in the Municipality of Peja. Prior to the encounter, the Mayor had not responded to a formal request for an interview submitted to his office.
AJK calls on Mr. Muhaxheri to publicly apologize for his inappropriate language and behavior toward the reporting team. The Association further urges the Mayor to demonstrate full transparency and cooperation in responding to media inquiries concerning matters of significant public interest.
Public officials, at both national and local levels, have a responsibility to respect the essential role of journalists and to comply with legal obligations to provide information about decisions that affect the public.
| Reporter Details | Other threats towards journalists, Shpresë Hasimi, Pejë, 01.03.2026 |
|---|---|
| Case description | The Association of Journalists of Kosovo (AJK) strongly condemns the behaviour of the Mayor of Peja, Gazmend Muhaxheri (LDK), toward journalist Shpresë Hasimi of Betimi për Drejtësi. According to video footage broadcast by the outlet, Mr. Muhaxheri is heard addressing the journalist in a dismissive and agitated tone before forcefully closing the door of the official vehicle he was entering. The incident followed a series of questions posed by the journalist regarding allegations of irregularities in the exchange of a multi-million-euro property in the Municipality of Peja. Prior to the encounter, the Mayor had not responded to a formal request for an interview submitted to his office. |
| State | Kosovo |
| Name and Surname | Shpresë Hasimi |
| Gender | Female |
| Date | 1.3.2026 |
| City | Pejë |
| Type of Incident | Other threats to journalists |
| From who | By public officials |
| The Offender / Suspect | Gazmend Muhaxhiri |
| Type of media | Online |
| Media Name | Betimi për Drejtësi |
| Source | Betimi për Drejtësi |
| Public Prosecutor | |
| Judiciary | |
| Judiciary Status | |
| Legal Closure | |
| Has the Journalist Association been notified? | Yes |
| Has the incident been reported to the authorities? | |
| Has the incident been reported to the XXX? | |
| Associations Respond | AJK calls on Mr. Muhaxheri to publicly apologize for his inappropriate language and behavior toward the reporting team. The Association further urges the Mayor to demonstrate full transparency and cooperation in responding to media inquiries concerning matters of significant public interest. Public officials, at both national and local levels, have a responsibility to respect the essential role of journalists and to comply with legal obligations to provide information about decisions that affect the pu |