[10] He worked closely with fellow activists to establish a communal statute for the Deçan municipality, making it one of the few areas with its own governing framework in defiance of Serbian laws.

[11] Alongside later prominent figures such as Adem Jashari, Zahir Pajaziti or Ilaz Kodra, he led a group of 34 men, who crossed into Albania to undergo military training, facilitated with the knowledge and support of Albanian President Ramiz Alia.

[13] On 19 April 1999, Sali Çekaj was killed while fighting in the Battle of Kosharë,[14][15] a significant confrontation between the Kosovo Liberation Army and Yugoslav forces.

Çekaj, along with famous commanders like Agim Ramadani and soldiers like Harun Beka, played a key role in the battle, which became one of the most notable military engagements during the conflict.

[15] Çekaj's involvement in key military operations, including the Battle of Kosharë and his efforts in organizing armed resistance and his leadership within the KLA are acknowledged as part of the broader struggle for Kosovo's independence.