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“Left for Hours with a Knife in Her Stomach”: 20-Year-Old Daughter of Murdered Woman Shocks European Parliament

Published January 15, 2026, 14:34

The 20-year-old Danai Jessica (Stefania) shocked the European Parliament with her testimony about the murder of her mother, Enkelejda, in Menidi in May 2024. Enkelejda was murdered by her ex-husband with 17 stab wounds. Danai Jessica spoke about the need to protect children left behind by femicides, emphasizing that they too are victims. Danai Jessica denounced shortcomings in the protection system, stating that her mother had repeatedly reported threats to the police and the judiciary, but was not provided with substantial security. In some cases, police authorities reassured her, telling her that she did not need to file a complaint. She stated that her mother was not informed about the automatic arrest warrant issued for her case, so she did not know if the perpetrator was free. Danai Jessica called for mandatory information for victims at every stage of the criminal proceedings, unified European risk assessment protocols, and immediate implementation of protective measures when there are repeated complaints. Her speech took place at an event titled “Femicides: 8+1 Stories in the European Parliament,” organized by Syriza MEP Kostas Arvanitis and the non-profit organization “Become Human.” Danai Jessica also requested institutional and financial support for the children of victims of gender-based violence.