Former President Osmani Calls for Compromise to End Kosovo’s Political Stalemate Ahead of Election

Kosovo is set to hold its third parliamentary election in 18 months on Sunday after a fragmented Parliament failed to elect a president in time.

Former President Vjosa Osmani, now a parliamentary candidate for the Democratic League of Kosovo (LDK), told Euronews that she hopes all parties will reach a compromise to break the political deadlock.

“I am very hopeful that the people of Kosovo will help us achieve a democratic balance among political parties, enabling them to sit down together and reach an agreement on forming institutions as soon as possible,” she said.

The president must secure at least two‑thirds of parliamentary votes.

Osmani believes a swift compromise would allow the country to address key national issues, including European integration and NATO membership.

“We need compromise, dialogue, and cooperation for the national interest, without creating divisions among our people. There is too much propaganda, division, and polarization harming our society,” she added.

Disinformation campaign

Osmani warned that the election campaign has faced the “worst” and “most massive” disinformation in the country’s history, prompting calls for a prosecutor’s investigation.

The campaign has largely targeted women political leaders with AI‑manipulated videos and photographs, and has included accusations against Prime Minister Albin Kurti’s government over social schemes and subsidies announced before the vote.

Opponents claim the government breached the law by attempting to influence the election. Osmani said she intends to amend legislation to prevent any future abuse of power that could sway voters.

Three elections in 18 months

Kosovo’s citizens will return to the polls on Sunday for a snap general election.

Although Prime Minister Albin Kurti’s party won the February 2025 election, it lacked a majority to form a government and called a snap vote in December.

Kurti’s party again won the election, but Parliament failed to achieve the two‑thirds majority needed to elect a new president on time due to an opposition boycott.

Osmani’s presidential term expired in April, with the interim presidency currently held by the President of Parliament.

“It is an unnecessary crisis, a completely unnecessary deadlock, because it is harming the country,” Osmani said.

Additional sources • AFP

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