The Central Election Commission of Kosovo has officially announced the outcomes of the recent legislative elections, revealing Prime Minister Albin Kurti’s Self-Determination Movement Party secured the most seats without achieving a ruling majority.
The Self-Determination Movement Party, led by Prime Minister Albin Kurti, emerged victorious with 42.30% of the votes, translating to 48 seats in the 120-seat assembly. Despite this achievement, the party’s inability to secure a simple majority, which requires 61 votes, places it in a challenging position. Kurti’s party needs to forge alliances to establish a government, a task complicated by his campaign vow to reject coalitions with major rivals, the Democratic Party of Kosovo (PDK) and the Democratic League of Kosovo (LDK).
The election results positioned the PDK and LDK in second and third places, securing 24 and 20 seats respectively. Meanwhile, the right-wing Alliance for Kosovo’s Future obtained 8 seats with 7.06% of the vote. The election turnout was recorded at 46.54%, which fell slightly compared to the previous election held in 2021.
Amid this backdrop, Kosovo continues to navigate significant economic challenges, especially following the suspension of financial support from key international backers, the United States and the European Union. Revitalizing the economy remains a pressing issue for any new government, further complicated by the ongoing requirement to normalize relations with Serbia, a critical step for both nations to advance towards European Union membership.
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Furthermore, the political landscape in Kosovo is compounded by constitutional procedures. Should Kurti fail to assemble a cabinet, the president may select another candidate from any of the successful parties to attempt forming a government. If this effort also fails, Kosovo might face another parliamentary election, adding to the existing political uncertainty.
Since gaining independence from Serbia in 2008, Kosovo has encountered various political and economic hurdles. Despite completing a parliamentary term under Kurti’s leadership since 2021, the path forward appears fraught with challenges. The impending 2026 presidential election adds another layer of complexity, as the presidency requires a two-thirds majority in parliament to secure victory.
Kosovo stands at a crossroads, grappling with the implications of recent election results that underscore the need for strategic alliances to form a government. As the nation faces economic recovery and geopolitical obligations, the ability to navigate these complex dynamics will define its political landscape.
