For the fifth time, Kosovo’s Assembly remains unconstituted, as political disagreements continue to block the election of the Speaker and the formation of key legislative bodies. The impasse is attributed to the lack of political will, particularly from Lëvizja Vetëvendosje (LVV), which is struggling to secure enough votes for its nominee, Albulena Haxhiu, to become Speaker.
Despite being the leading party following the February 9 elections, LVV has failed to gather the required 61 votes in both sessions on April 19 and April 23, with PDK, LDK, and AAK voting against her nomination. Additionally, Nisma Socialdemokrate abstained, while deputies from Serb List and Bosniak community leader Duda Balje chose not to participate in the vote.
A Sixth Attempt Looms
The ongoing political gridlock threatens to delay the formation of Kosovo’s new government. Political analysts suggest the deadlock will persist until one of the parties “gives in,” with the situation becoming increasingly strategic rather than procedural.
LVV’s Stubborn Stance
LVV insists on its right to nominate Albulena Haxhiu for the post of Speaker, a right granted by the Constitutional Court’s ruling in 2014. However, this has not eased the path forward. In a recent parliamentary session, Glauk Konjufca from LVV urged other parties to engage in political dialogue, stressing that the party remains firm on its nomination. Yet, Eugen Cakolli, a KDI monitor, believes LVV is more focused on its own political advantage, and that real negotiations are necessary to break the deadlock.
Is Political Gridlock Benefiting LVV?
Some observers argue that LVV is strategically prolonging the political deadlock to maintain influence in the interim. While negotiations stall, the party continues to operate within government roles, effectively delaying the formation of a new coalition.
New Session Scheduled for Friday
The sixth attempt to form Kosovo’s Assembly will take place on Friday, April 25, at 10:00 AM. This session represents another critical juncture for Albulena Haxhiu’s candidacy and the future direction of Kosovo’s government.
