In a recent statement to the media, Minister of Local Government Administration, Elbert Krasniqi, emphasized the responsibility of the state in organizing the ongoing petition and voting process, despite a noticeable lack of turnout among citizens.
“Our responsibility was to facilitate this petition, allowing citizens to express their will. It was also the state’s duty to orchestrate this process, and I am confident that everything proceeded smoothly,” remarked Krasniqi.
He underscored that citizens’ rights are safeguarded through legislation on local governance, asserting, “The Government of Kosovo was mandated to enable citizens desiring to voice their grievances or call for the removal of mayors from office to do so through mechanisms guaranteed by local governance laws.”
Krasniqi further explained that should 50 percent plus one of citizens participate in the vote, the President of Kosovo, Vjosa Osmani, would declare early elections in municipalities where such efforts garner success. “If over half of citizens partake in this vote and vote for the removal of mayors, the President will proceed with early elections in those municipalities,” he emphasized.
Regarding the Serbian List, Krasniqi criticized their stance, stating, “The Serbian List seeks to monopolize Serbian politics in Kosovo. They view institutions solely for their own interests and not for the citizens.”
Today, voting is underway in the four northern municipalities of Kosovo for the dismissal of Albanian mayors in North Mitrovica, Zvečan, Zubin Potok, and Leposavić. The voter list comprises 46,556 eligible voters.
The Minister’s remarks shed light on the ongoing democratic process and the challenges encountered in mobilizing citizen participation, highlighting the delicate balance between governmental responsibilities and citizen engagement.
