Vetëvendosje MP Saranda Bogujevci responded today to reports that her name was proposed as a compromise candidate for Speaker of Parliament by the Alliance for the Future of Kosovo (AAK). She emphasized that her identity as a survivor of war should not be misunderstood as a sign of being easily influenced or lacking independent political thought.
“Just because we are war victims doesn’t mean we are controlled, or that we don’t have our own minds or understanding,” Bogujevci told the press as she entered the Assembly for the 25th attempt to convene a functioning parliament.
“I’ve Been Resisting Serbia Since I Was a Child”
Bogujevci, who previously served as Deputy Speaker, clarified that her personal history extends beyond being a survivor:
“I wasn’t just a victim whose family was killed. I’ve been in resistance against Serbia since I was a child. My entire childhood was part of that struggle.”
She criticized the condescending narrative that assumes war victims, especially women, lack the education, knowledge, or capacity to hold political power.
Vetëvendosje Stands Firm on Albulena Haxhiu
Despite suggestions of alternative candidates, Bogujevci affirmed that Vetëvendosje is not backing down from nominating Albulena Haxhiu for the role of Speaker.
“Someone simply suggested my name because I sat in the chair before as Deputy Speaker. But we’re not shifting — our candidate is Albulena Haxhiu,” she said.
Parliament in Deadlock: 25 Attempts, No Speaker
Today marked the 25th unsuccessful attempt to formally constitute the Kosovo Assembly, with parties unable to reach a consensus on leadership roles.
Bogujevci’s remarks came amid increasing domestic and international pressure to resolve the impasse and move forward with the formation of government institutions.
