Artan Grubi's defense distances itself from celebration outside his home, apologizes to residents
Lawyers say the short, spontaneous gathering after his house-arrest was lifted had no speeches or political signs and they apologized to anyone disturbed.
The defense team for Artan Grubi issued a public statement distancing itself from a spontaneous gathering that took place last night outside his home after his house arrest was lifted, and apologized to residents who were disturbed by the event.
Statement from the defense team
The lawyers said the meeting lasted only a few minutes, included no speeches, messages or political symbols, and that any demonstration of support was a private act by citizens. They asked for forgiveness from anyone who felt uneasy because of the incident.
"In the name of our client, we apologize to all citizens who may have been disturbed last night by the several-minute spontaneous incident, which could create a wrong impression in public. Artan Grubi did not participate in the organization, nor does the gathering represent his political position or initiative. Any expression of support is a personal choice of citizens and should not be associated with the defense," the statement said.
The defense also underlined that the lifting of the house-arrest measure was a decision of the competent authorities within the legal procedure and that such decisions should be respected without political pressure, personal interpretations or public pressure.
"Our focus remains exclusively on the legal aspects of the case, the protection of Artan Grubi's rights, and ensuring a lawful and fair procedure," the lawyers Vladimir Donevski and Goce Risteski emphasized.
After Grubi was released from house arrest — a measure that was lifted when the maximum legally allowed term expired — he was met in Čair, Skopje by dozens of people. The reception included lit torches, smoke bombs and what sounded like fireworks.
Photo: press material from the event
