12 days before the constitutional deadline for forming a new government in Kosovo, there are growing signs that a parliamentary majority could soon be secured.
The mandate-holder for Prime Minister, Albin Kurti from Vetëvendosje Movement (LVV), stated on Tuesday that his party has not yet started official talks with other political parties. However, the Social Democratic Initiative (Nisma) confirmed that it will respond positively to any invitation from LVV to discuss forming new institutions.
Kurti’s Mandate and the Deadline
Kurti was formally mandated by President Vjosa Osmani on October 10 to form the new executive after the Kosovo Assembly was constituted the same day. To secure approval, Kurti and his proposed cabinet will need at least 61 votes in the 120-member parliament.
Before Dimal Basha was elected Speaker of the Assembly, Kurti had already met with Nisma’s leader, Fatmir Limaj, to explore a potential governing coalition — though no agreement was reached at that stage.
Nisma’s Position
Xhevahire Izmaku, a member of Nisma, told KosovaPress that her party feels a “political responsibility” and sees no reason not to sit down with LVV to discuss the formation of a new government.
Izmaku added that if the formation of the new government depends solely on Nisma’s three votes, then “there will be no conditions” from her party regarding the creation of new institutions.
However, she emphasized that the position of Speaker Dimal Basha must be clarified, arguing that the Assembly cannot function properly with a figure who has created divisions. Basha has faced criticism for allegedly co-authoring an article perceived as anti-UÇK (Kosovo Liberation Army), though he has repeatedly denied this, stating his involvement was limited to a chapter on Islamic fundamentalism in Southeastern Europe.
Analysts: A Minority Government Still Possible
Political analyst Seb Bytyçi believes a new government could be formed through a coalition between LVV and Nisma, potentially joined by individual MPs from opposition parties. He also noted that local election agreements could influence coalition-building at the national level — even with parties like the AAK, despite recent tensions between Kurti and its leader, Ramush Haradinaj.
University professor Mazllum Baraliu shares this optimism, saying a minority government with 61 votes remains achievable in the coming days.
What Happens If No Government Is Formed?
Kosovo has been without fully functional institutions for over eight months since the February 9 parliamentary elections. Following the delayed constitutive session of the Assembly, the clock is now ticking.
Under the Constitution, the mandate-holder has 15 days to propose a government and seek approval from Parliament. If Kurti fails to secure 61 votes, President Osmani must, within 10 days, consult with parties and nominate a new candidate. That candidate would then have another 15 days to try to form a government.
If both attempts fail, the President is constitutionally required to call new elections, which must be held within 40 days.
