The Basic Prosecution Office in Mitrovica announced on Monday evening that it has ordered a temporary suspension of the vote-counting process at the Municipal Counting Center following reports of serious irregularities.
According to the prosecution’s statement, the decision was made after commission members reported inconsistencies involving different serial numbers on several ballots. The discrepancies have raised concerns over possible technical errors or even deliberate manipulation of the voting materials.
Investigation Underway Over Suspected Manipulation
“This decision was taken following reports of irregularities that resulted in the suspension of counting due to differing serial numbers on certain ballots,” the prosecution said. “While some claim these were technical errors, others suspect intentional manipulation. To eliminate any doubt, this order will remain in effect until an official response is received from the printing company confirming whether this was a technical issue or deliberate tampering,” the statement continued.
The prosecution emphasized that the continuation of the counting process will depend on the results of the investigation and the official clarification from the ballot-printing operator.
CEC Confirms Similar Issue in Gjakova
Later that night, the Central Election Commission (CEC) issued its own clarification regarding the ballots in Mitrovica, confirming reports of serial number mismatches and explaining that vote counting was halted.
The CEC also acknowledged that a similar issue occurred in Gjakova, but assured the public that the integrity of the election process remains intact.
According to the CEC, the company responsible for printing the ballots admitted that a mechanical printing error may have occurred and promised to issue a detailed report in the coming days.
“It is important to stress that the total number of printed ballots was correctly recorded,” the CEC said. “For each polling station, the printed ballots’ serial numbers match the verified counts in both Mitrovica South and Gjakova. These technical discrepancies do not compromise the integrity of the election process, as every ballot contains multiple security features preventing falsification or duplication.”
Opposition MP Gruda: ‘Evidence of Manipulation Is Undeniable’
Opposition MP Përparim Gruda from the Democratic Party of Kosovo (PDK) reacted strongly to the situation, calling on the prosecution to act swiftly and decisively.
“The evidence of vote manipulation in Mitrovica is undeniable,” Gruda stated. “It is now the duty of the prosecution to uncover the truth without compromise or mercy towards those who violated the will of the citizens. No one will be able to hide the truth.”
Gruda urged authorities to ensure full transparency and accountability, warning that any delay would further damage public trust in the electoral system.
Political Tension Rising Over Election Legitimacy
The decision to halt vote counting in Mitrovica has heightened political tensions, as opposition parties accuse electoral authorities of mishandling the process and failing to prevent irregularities.
While the CEC maintains that these are merely technical glitches, the prosecution’s involvement signals serious concerns about potential vote manipulation — an issue that could have significant political consequences if confirmed.
