Yesterday, at the District Court of Pristina, the trial of Albin Kurti was adjourned until 16 April 2010 at 09.30.

This because the defendant was not present in court after Kosovo Police failed to carry out the arrest order issued by the presiding judge yesterday. In addition the lawyer appointed ex officio, Mr Avni Gjakova, refused to continue assisting Albin Kurti and left the court, thereby violating his official duties.

The presiding judge has decided to appoint another lawyer ex officio, Mr. Musa Dragusha, to defend Mr. Albin Kurti.

Mr Kurti is accused of participating in a crowd committing a criminal offence; participating in a group obstructing official persons in performing official duties and calling for resistance. These three offences were allegedly committed on the occasion of the demonstrations of 10 February 2007 in Pristina.

The Prosecution is represented by a local prosecutor from the Special Prosecution Office (SPRK).