Written by: S. Ahmeti

The issue of deciding in favour of former Kosova [Kosovo] Prime Minister Ramush Haradinaj's release on bail is only a matter of days and hours. Reliable sources who are very close to this process expressed this optimism.

"We believe the decision for former Prime Minister Haradinaj's release on bail will be made this week, in an official conference planned to be held by the jury, which should state the decision it has made following the request presented by the defence and the concrete guarantees given by the international administration in Prishtina [Pristina]," the aforementioned sources told Kosova Sot .

These sources expressed optimism that the court will have an additional reason to release Ramush Haradinaj on bail following the positive assessment in the recent session of the UN Security Council, which discussed the most recent situation in Kosova.

"This positive political assessment in the UN Security Council is a step forward that could help the court decide in favour of the request by Haradinaj's defence. Also, the positive developments since Haradinaj's departure cannot be without influence on the court's decision," the sources said.

According to information available to Kosova Sot , Haradinaj could return to Kosova within this week. He is obliged to respect all rules of the Hague tribunal as far as his behaviour during his stay in the country is concerned. These rules apply for all accused persons for whom this court makes such decisions.

Credit: Kosova Sot, Pristina, in Albanian 31 May 05 p 3