Prek Cali, a prominent figure of Albania’s national movement and leader of the Kelmendi highlanders, was born on July 29, 1878, in Mali i Jushit, Shkodër.
Cali played an important role in Albania’s history during the early 20th century. He fought against the Ottoman Empire between 1908 and 1912 and later supported forces backing Prince Wied’s government in 1914.
He also took part in the Battle of Koplik in 1920, where Albanian forces fought to push back invading troops.
During the June Revolution of 1924, Prek Cali supported Fan Noli. As the leader of Kelmendi fighters, he entered Tirana on June 11 to help Noli’s forces take control of the capital.
After Ahmet Zogu returned to power, Cali faced political opposition and spent three years in exile in Gjirokastër.
Following the establishment of the monarchy in 1928, Zogu sought to strengthen state control in northern border areas. Recognising Cali’s influence, military experience and importance in Kelmendi, he restored his position, promoted him to captain and assigned him responsibility for protecting the region’s borders.
In January 1945, Prek Cali organised the Brojë Assembly, which aimed to coordinate anti-communist resistance. He later led the Kelmendi Uprising on January 12–13, 1945.
After the uprising failed, communist forces arrested Cali, put him on trial and executed him on March 25, 1945, in Shkodër.
On June 25, 1993, the President of Albania awarded Prek Cali the title “Martyr of Democracy” in recognition of his role in the country’s history.
/a.c/
The post Prek Cali: Leader of Kelmendi Highlanders and Martyr of Democracy appeared first on RTSH English.
