PRISTINA, Kosovo, December 29 — Prime Minister Albin Kurti’s nationalist Vetevendosje party secured a decisive victory in Kosovo’s snap parliamentary election Sunday, gaining a potential mandate to end a year-long political deadlock. With over 50% of the vote counted, the win opens a path to form a government after months of paralyzed governance.
Who won Kosovo’s parliamentary election?
With 87% of votes counted Sunday night, Prime Minister Albin Kurti’s Vetevendosje party led with 50.2% of the vote. This marks the second election this year after Kurti failed to secure a majority in a February vote, leading to a prolonged impasse. The two main opposition parties, the Democratic Party and the Democratic League, trailed at 20.7% and 14% respectively.
What happens next?
Analysts note that while Vetevendosje achieved a strong plurality, it is unlikely to secure the 61 seats needed for a solo majority in the 120-seat Assembly. “I don’t see how Kurti will form the government alone but it will be very easy for him to govern with a small coalition,” said Ismet Kryeziu of the Kosovo Democratic Institute. Kurti will need to secure additional votes from smaller Albanian or minority parties to appoint a new cabinet.
Why was this election critical?
Another failure to form a government would prolong a political crisis at a sensitive time. The new parliament must elect a Kosovo president by April and ratify approximately 1 billion euros in loan agreements from the European Union and World Bank, which are set to expire in the coming months. The previous year-long deadlock had paralyzed legislation and delayed this crucial international funding.
What were the key campaign issues?
Kurti campaigned on pledges including an extra month of salary per year for public workers, 1 billion euros in annual capital investment, and a new unit to prosecute organized crime. Opposition parties also focused on living standards, a top voter concern. “We want the next government to create conditions for the youth to stay here and not leave,” voter Rexhep Karakashi told Reuters. The opposition has criticized Kurti’s handling of relations with Western allies and tensions in the ethnically divided north.
What is the broader context?
Kosovo, which declared independence from Serbia in 2008, has struggled with poverty and instability. Kurti’s government, elected in 2021, was the first to complete a full term. Recent tensions with Serbia prompted EU sanctions, which were lifted this month after local elections in Serb-majority municipalities. Voter turnout in Sunday’s election was 45%.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Will Albin Kurti be Prime Minister again?
A: It is highly likely. His party’s strong plurality positions him to lead coalition talks and form the next government, though he will require support from smaller parties.
Q: What stalled governance for the past year?
A: After the February election, months of failed coalition talks between political factions left parliament unable to function, leading the president to dissolve it and call this snap election.
Q: What are the immediate tasks for the new government?
A: The priorities are constituting parliament, appointing a cabinet, electing a president by April, and ratifying over 1 billion euros in expiring international loan agreements.
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