Former Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić has criticized the decision by Albanian political parties in the Preševo Valley to unite ahead of elections, claiming their cooperation is intended to raise the issue of Albanians in southern Serbia on the international agenda.
Speaking about the political developments ahead of the vote, Vučić noted that Albanian parties are running together on a joint list headed by Shaip Kamberi. He also made derogatory remarks about Kamberi and the other candidates on the list.
“For the first time, Albanian parties have united. For the first time, they are all running together. They have put the worst and most evil among them, Shaip Kamberi, at the top of the list, while the other two are in second and third positions,” Vučić said.
He claimed that the joint electoral effort aims to internationalize the issue of the Preševo Valley, referring to the involvement of U.S. Congressman Joe Wilson.
According to Vučić, Albanian political representatives will seek support through contacts with international officials, foreign embassies and European institutions to draw greater attention to the situation of Albanians in Serbia.
“Through him and others in Europe, they will try to raise the issue of the Preševo Valley. Various embassies will receive them here, and they will talk to them about everything and many other things,” he said.
Vučić also referred to Kosovo Prime Minister Albin Kurti, alleging that an external actor would continue supporting efforts to bring the issue before the international community.
“You can see that there is an external factor that will continue pushing this issue forward. Just do not think that I am a fool,” Vučić said.
His remarks come as Albanian political parties in the Preševo Valley pursue joint electoral representation, with the rights and political representation of ethnic Albanians in Serbia remaining significant regional issues.
