Obstruction against journalist Shqipron Xhema, Pristina, 15.4.2025
The Association of Journalists of Kosovo (AJK) has received with concern and strongly condemns the obstructive action of the Member of Parliament from the Turkish Democratic Party of Kosovo (KDTP), Fikrim Damka, against KALLXO.com journalist Shqipron Xhema, while he was carrying out his professional duties during today’s constitutive session of the Assembly of Kosovo.
According to reports, journalist Xhema, while attempting to obtain a statement from MP Damka regarding certain conversations that were published in the media, was subjected to an unacceptable physical action. The MP reportedly grabbed the journalist’s phone from his hand, directly interfering with his work and compromising his professional integrity.
AJK recalls that any physical or verbal interference with journalists in their workplace constitutes an attack on freedom of expression, and consequently, on democracy itself.
AJK calls on the relevant institutions to treat this incident with seriousness and to take the necessary measures to ensure the safety of journalists in exercising their profession, without pressure or intimidation.
Freedom of the press is one of the fundamental pillars of democracy, and any attempt to undermine it is unacceptable.
| Reporter Details | Obstruction against journalist Shqipron Xhema, Pristina, 15.4.2025 |
|---|---|
| Case description | KDTP MP Fikrim Damka obstructed KALLXO.com journalist Shqipron Xhema while he was attempting to obtain a statement at the Assembly, by grabbing his phone and physically interfering with his work. The Association of Journalists of Kosovo (AJK) has condemned this action as a violation of media freedom and has called for the case to be treated seriously by the relevant institutions. |
| State | Kosovo |
| Name and Surname | Shqipron Xhema |
| Gender | Male |
| Date | 15.4.2025 |
| City | Prishtinë |
| Type of Incident | Actual attacks on journalists |
| From who | By public officials |
| The Offender / Suspect | Fikrim Damka |
| Type of media | Online |
| Media Name | KALLXO.COM |
| Source | |
| 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 | AGK reminds that any physical or verbal interference with journalists at their workplace is an attack on freedom of expression, and consequently, on democracy. AGK calls on the relevant institutions to treat this incident with utmost seriousness and to take the necessary measures to ensure the safety of journalists while performing their duties, without pressure or fear. |