The High Inspector of Justice has reacted after the tragic event that occurred today in the premises of the Court of Appeal of General Jurisdiction in Tirana, where Judge Astrit Kalaja was killed and two other citizens were injured.
The High Judicial Council expresses deep sorrow for the loss of its colleague and strongly condemns this criminal act that occurred in the courtroom, as well as the use of hate speech, the denigration of the magistrate's figure, and the marked lack of respect for judicial activity.
The Council underlines that respect for the independence and security of magistrates is the foundation of the rule of law, and any attack on them is an attack on the institution itself and the public interest.
The full response of the High Inspector of Justice:
With deep sorrow, the High Judicial Council learned of the criminal event of the murder, in the courtroom, and while on duty, of Judge Astrit Kalaja, Judge of the Court of Appeal of General Jurisdiction.
This serious act violates the foundations of the rule of law, the security of justice institutions and the public's trust in the courts.
The High Judicial Council strongly condemns the criminal act of murdering our colleague, and emphasizes that any act that attacks or violates the integrity of the courts damages everything we build with work and dedication.
The Council emphasizes that respecting the independence and security of magistrates is the cornerstone of the rule of law, through which the protection of the rights of judges and the public interest is guaranteed.
Violating the physical integrity of judges constitutes a direct attack, not only on magistrates but also on the rule of law, democratic institutions, as well as the interest and trust of the public.
We strongly condemn such a criminal act, as well as the use of hate speech, the denigration of the figure of the magistrate and the marked lack of respect for judicial activity.
In these moments of collective pain, we express our most sincere condolences to the family, relatives of the victim and colleagues.
The High Judicial Council expresses its deep gratitude for the solidarity shown on this difficult day, by all institutions, entities and individuals who publicly demonstrated their respect for the judiciary.
