The Ombudsperson Institution of Kosovo has reacted to what it called an unprecedented decision by the Central Election Commission (CEC) to deny accreditation to several media outlets for coverage of the October 12 local elections, including the online outlet Reporteri.net.
In a public statement, the Ombudsperson said the institution is closely monitoring the situation and has initiated an investigation ex officio regarding the case.
“Recognizing the importance of free and fair elections that reflect the political will of citizens and guarantee democratic representation, the Ombudsperson draws attention to the constitutional values of the Republic of Kosovo, which are based on the principles of freedom, equality, respect for human rights, the rule of law, and non-discrimination,” the statement reads.
The institution emphasized the crucial role of the media and media pluralism in informing the public and ensuring transparency during the electoral process.
The Ombudsperson also encouraged affected media outlets to use all available legal remedies, while noting that it will closely follow future developments to ensure compliance with democratic standards.
In closing, the Ombudsperson reminded authorities that “without an electoral process that respects democratic standards, there can be no genuine respect for human rights — and without the protection of guaranteed freedoms, there can be no free, fair, and credible elections.”
