Twenty-eight Albanian-American activists in the United States have called on Kosovo’s political leaders and lawmakers to support the candidacy of Bekim Sejdiu for president, arguing that he has the experience and integrity needed to strengthen Kosovo’s ties with Washington.
In a letter addressed to the leaders of Kosovo’s political parties and members of parliament, the signatories said Sejdiu “has the experience and integrity necessary to unite the state and strengthen Kosovo’s relations with the United States.”
The activists highlighted Sejdiu’s previous diplomatic service, particularly his tenure as Kosovo’s consul in New York, saying he played an important role in connecting the Albanian diaspora in the United States with Kosovo.
“At this critical time, Kosovo needs a head of state who enjoys deep institutional respect and has a proven career in public service,” the letter states.
The signatories also praised Sejdiu’s legal background and diplomatic experience, describing him as highly qualified to represent Kosovo internationally.
“Dr. Sejdiu’s distinguished legal experience and diplomatic standing make him exceptionally qualified to represent the state with dignity on the global stage,” they said.
The letter was signed by 28 Albanian-American activists, including Elio Ahmetaj, Adrian Grajcevci, Bruno Selimaj, Harry Bajraktari, Ramazan Hajdini, Gani Shehu, Vehbi Bajrami, Joe Haliti, Beqir Sina, Ekrem Bardha, Agim Ismaili, Ismet Smajli, Ramazan Bekteshi, Iljaz Kadriu, Doc Vraniqi, Ilmi Berisha, Richard Lukaj, Martin Vulaj, Cafo Boga, Besim Malota, Shpresa Xhakli, Musa Dakaj, Halil Mula, Jim Xhema, Gjevalin Gegaj, Gino Mulliqi, Mark Gjonaj and Adrian Neritani.
The endorsement comes one day after the Vetëvendosje Movement and the Democratic League of Kosovo proposed Sejdiu as their candidate for president.
Sejdiu previously served as a judge on Kosovo’s Constitutional Court. Before joining the court, he pursued a diplomatic career, including serving as Kosovo’s ambassador to Turkey and consul in New York.
His candidacy comes amid ongoing political efforts in Kosovo to secure the election of a new president and restore institutional stability.
