Kosovo Holds Snap Elections After Months Of Political Deadlock

"The election follows two failed attempts by Prime Minister Albin Kurti's Vetevendosje (VV) party to assemble a governing coalition despite topping the polls in a general election in February. The impasse has left Kurti's administration in caretaker mode, delayed approval of a state budget, strained relations with international partners, and raised the risk of further institutional instability if divisions persist after the vote."

"Vetevendosje won about 42 percent in February and has said it is aiming to surpass 50 percent this time to govern alone and avoid post-election coalition talks. Twenty-four parties and coalitions are competing, with more than 1,000 candidates seeking seats in the 120-member parliament."

"'This change is directly related to the need for coalitions,' said Donika Emini, a senior researcher at the Balkans in Europe Policy Advisory Group. 'Vetevendosje is aware that it cannot govern alone as it did in 2021.' Political analyst Artan Muhaxhiri said the softer rhetoric may not last. 'Everything will depend on the election results,' he said. 'If Vetevendosje achieves a very strong result, it will likely return to its harsher, polarizing rhetoric.'"

Kosovo is holding repeat parliamentary elections after months of political deadlock that blocked formation of a new government following February's vote. Prime Minister Albin Kurti's Vetevendosje failed twice to build a coalition and has operated in caretaker mode, delaying a state budget and straining international relations. Vetevendosje won about 42 percent in February and aims to exceed 50 percent to govern alone. Twenty-four parties and coalitions and over 1,000 candidates compete for 120 seats. Major opposition parties have vowed to prevent another Kurti-led government. Campaign rhetoric has softened as parties weigh coalition needs, though analysts warn tone could harden depending on results.

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