With just seven days remaining until the July 26 deadline set by the Constitutional Court, Kosovo’s political crisis shows no signs of resolution. Despite numerous attempts since the February 9 parliamentary elections, the Assembly has failed to convene and elect its leadership, leaving the formation of new institutions in limbo.
The most recent attempt the 49th in total to elect the Speaker and other Assembly bodies failed on Saturday. Another effort is scheduled for Monday, but analysts say the deadlock is likely to persist following the lack of agreement in a high-stakes meeting between Acting Prime Minister and Vetëvendosje (LVV) leader Albin Kurti and Nisma leader Fatmir Limaj.
The Constitutional Court has made clear: by July 26, the newly elected Assembly must be constituted. Yet the ruling did not specify consequences should the deadline be missed — prompting uncertainty over whether new elections will be called or other legal steps pursued.
LVV’s Candidate at the Center of the Stalemate
Albulena Haxhiu, the LVV nominee for Speaker, has failed six times to secure the 61 votes needed. Despite this, the party insists on her candidacy, a stance that political analyst Magbule Shkodra says is prolonging the crisis.
“I hope there is a shift in Albin Kurti’s rigid position in the days ahead so that we can finally see progress in forming institutions,” Shkodra told KosovaPress.
The deadlock has drawn concern from international allies. U.S. official Brendan Hanrahan recently visited Kosovo and met with leaders of parliamentary parties. Shkodra believes his visit signals that international patience is wearing thin.
“I don’t think it was just a courtesy visit. I believe it was tied to strategic security concerns and may have delivered a strong message to all parties about the need to move forward,” she added.
Legal Uncertainty Adds Pressure
Compounding the crisis, legal experts now warn that any decisions made by MPs who simultaneously serve as ministers may be invalid. According to a Supreme Court ruling, dual office-holding violates the principle of separation of powers.
Legal expert Ardian Bajraktari says it is imperative that parties reflect and act to implement the electoral will.
“This is the final moment for reflection — the responsibility lies primarily with the largest political actors. The lack of political will, more than any other factor, is what has brought us here,” he stated.
LVV, as the winning party, retains the right to propose the Assembly Speaker. However, opposition parties have refused to participate in forming the verification commission, calling it unconstitutional, especially after LVV attempted to shift to a secret ballot vote.
What Happens Next?
With no progress, and July 26 fast approaching, Kosovo faces an unprecedented constitutional dilemma. If the Assembly is not formed, and no legal solution emerges, the country may plunge deeper into political uncertainty — possibly heading toward snap elections or judicial intervention.
The next 7 days may determine not only the shape of Kosovo’s government but also the resilience of its constitutional order.
