Clashes erupt in Pristina as lawmakers stall bill restricting Hague court

The short version

• Hundreds of protesters clashed with police in Kosovo's capital after parliament adjourned before holding a final vote on curbing the Hague-based court.[Al Jazeera · Associated Press]
• A Pristina hospital official reported that 12 people, including 11 civilians and one police officer, were injured during the unrest.[Associated Press]
• The proposed legal changes would limit prison sentences to 15 years, permit domestic appeals, and allow convicts to serve time in Kosovo.[Associated Press]
• The standoff follows the convictions and 13-to-25-year sentences of former President Hashim Thaci and three other former commanders.[Associated Press]

Key facts

• Parliament voted on amendments limiting the Hague-based court in a first reading but adjourned prior to taking a required second vote.[Al Jazeera · Associated Press]
• The Democratic Party of Kosovo proposed the bill to limit the court's mandate by capping sentences at 15 years, allowing appeals to the Supreme Court, and permitting time to be served domestically.[Associated Press]
• According to central Pristina emergency director Naser Syla, 12 individuals were hurt during the unrest, comprising 11 civilians and one police officer.[Associated Press]
• The legislation follows the conviction in The Hague of former President Hashim Thaci and three other former KLA commanders for 1998-99 war crimes.[Associated Press]
• Lawmakers previously passed a declaration unanimously condemning the Hague war crimes verdicts in late September.[Associated Press]

Sources

Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.

• Anger erupts in Pristina after Kosovo parliament stalls bid to curb powers of Hague courtAssociated Press · Wire: associated-press
• Police clash with Kosovo protesters over bid to curb Hague war crimes courtAl Jazeera