In the October 12 local elections, the Central Election Commission (CEC) received 33,258 envelopes believed to contain ballots.
Given how close the race currently is in Gjilan, the votes from the diaspora could allow Vetëvendosje (VV) to win the municipality without a runoff.
According to the CEC, 2,066 voters from abroad were registered to vote in Gjilan. The current results stand as follows: Alban Hyseni (VV) with 49.79% and Arbër Ismajli (LDK) with 34.24%.
In Hani i Elezit, diaspora votes could also alter the outcome, even though Mehmet Ballazhi from the PDK has already declared victory.
The difference between him and the independent candidate Refki Suma is only 93 votes, while 395 citizens were registered to vote from abroad — increasing the likelihood of a potential reversal.
On the other hand, the Democratic League of Kosovo (LDK) declared victory on Sunday in Junik, counting on the diaspora votes. The party suggested it has secured a win without a runoff, as 1,344 citizens were registered to vote from abroad.
Based on preliminary results, Ruzhdi Shehu (LDK) has 47.91%, while Agron Kuci (AAK) has 40.68%.
