Nijazi Azemi

Nijazi Azemi (1970–2001) was a prominent commander in the Liberation Army of Preševo, Medveđa, and Bujanovac (UÇPMB). Known as "Komandant Mjekrra," he gained fame for his guerrilla tactics against Yugoslav forces. Born in Mogila, Azemi initially worked as a woodcarver but became involved in activism after participating in protests against Serbian rule. He joined the Kosovo Liberation Army (KLA) following clashes with police and trained there during the Kosovo War.

By 1998, Azemi had risen through KLA ranks, leading units in the Dukagjini region and fighting in key battles like the Battle of Košare. After the war's end in 1999 under the Kumanovo Agreement, he joined UÇPMB, which aimed to integrate Preševo, Medveđa, and Bujanovac into Kosovo. He commanded the 115th "Karadaku" Brigade, renamed the "Nijazi Azemi" Brigade after his death.

Azemi's insurgency escalated tensions in the Preševo Valley, leading to NATO-brokered agreements. Despite a ceasefire allowing Yugoslav forces to re-enter the area, Azemi vowed not to surrender his weapons, stating he didn't understand what his superiors had signed.

On 26 March 2001, Azemi was killed by a sniper's bullet in a shootout near Caravajkë village. His body was exhibited in Viti and buried at Vitina's Martyrs' Cemetery. A square in Viti was later named after him, cementing his legacy as a resistance leader.