Threats against media outlets and organizations,Lumir Abdixhiku, Prishtinë, 12.03.2026
The Association of Journalists of Kosovo (AjK) strongly condemns the repeated accusatory rhetoric used by the leader of the Democratic League of Kosovo (LDK), Lumir Abdixhiku, against media outlets and journalists in Kosovo.
During a televised interview last night, Abdixhiku once again referred to journalists as “media mercenaries,” claiming that they “very easily spread defamation and irresponsibility, simply because their bank accounts grow through sponsors and various opponents.”
Mr. Abdixhiku’s claims represent a direct attack on the media, media freedom, and freedom of expression in Kosovo.
Language that labels journalists as “mercenaries” is irresponsible, unacceptable, and highly dangerous. Such rhetoric can also contribute to an environment that risks undermining the physical safety of journalists.
It is particularly regrettable that these statements come from Mr. Abdixhiku while he is currently in opposition and holds around 13 percent public support.
AjK calls on Mr. Abdixhiku to refrain from making such speculative accusations. If he possesses evidence to support these claims, he should report them to the relevant authorities.
AJK also urges Mr. Abdixhiku, together with the 14 other members of his party, LDK, in the Assembly of Kosovo, to contribute to strengthening a free and safe media environment.
| Reporter Details | Threats against media outlets and organizations,Lumir Abdixhiku, Prishtinë, 12.03.2026 |
|---|---|
| Case description | The Association of Journalists of Kosovo (AjK) strongly condemns the repeated accusatory rhetoric used by the leader of the Democratic League of Kosovo (LDK), Lumir Abdixhiku, against media outlets and journalists in Kosovo. During a televised interview last night, Abdixhiku once again referred to journalists as “media mercenaries,” claiming that they “very easily spread defamation and irresponsibility, simply because their bank accounts grow through sponsors and various opponents.” Mr. Abdixhiku’s claims represent a direct attack on the media, media freedom, and freedom of expression in Kosovo. |
| State | Kosovo |
| Name and Surname | |
| Gender | Group |
| Date | 12.3.2026 |
| City | Prishtinë |
| Type of Incident | Threats against media outlets and organizations |
| From who | By public persons |
| The Offender / Suspect | Lumir Abdixhiku - LDK |
| Type of media | Radio and Television |
| Media Name | |
| Source | Interview |
| 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 | Language that labels journalists as “mercenaries” is irresponsible, unacceptable, and highly dangerous. Such rhetoric can also contribute to an environment that risks undermining the physical safety of journalists. It is particularly regrettable that these statements come from Mr. Abdixhiku while he is currently in opposition and holds around 13 percent public support. AjK calls on Mr. Abdixhiku to refrain from making such speculative accusations. If he possesses evidence to support these claims, he should report them to the relevant authorities. AJK also urges Mr. Abdixhiku, together with the 14 other members of his party, LDK, in the Assembly of Kosovo, to contribute to strengthening a free and safe media environment. |