Kosova deputies failed once again on Saturday, July 26, to form the new Assembly. These two latest attempts brought the total number of unsuccessful tries to 54. The reason remains clear: a lack of political consensus.

Meanwhile, the 30-day deadline set by the Constitutional Court has now expired. Consequently, deputies are barred from convening or making any decisions until August 8, 2025. On that date, the Court is expected to issue a temporary ruling pending a final decision.

The Constitutional Court will clarify the legal consequences facing deputies elected in the February 9 parliamentary elections.

Uncertainty Over New Institutions

The political movement Vetevendosja [Self-determination], which secured first place in the elections with 48 seats, insisted on nominating Albulena Haxhiu as Speaker of the Assembly. However, opposition parties, including the Democratic Party of Kosova, the Democratic League of Kosova, the Alliance for the Future of Kosova, and part of the minority parties such as the Serbian List, rejected her candidacy.

According to Hekuran Murati from Vetevendosja, “What voters didn’t grant them, they now try to steal through political tricks.” He further blamed the opposition for blocking the formation of the Assembly.

Murati added, “Until the last hour, despite our efforts to push for new institutions, we didn’t succeed. Opposition deputies once again refused to fulfill their constitutional duty to vote. Moreover, deputies were not even given the chance to vote secretly and move the process forward.”

Accusations Directed at Vetevendosja Movement

Memli Krasniqi, leader of the Democratic Party of Kosova, accused Vetevendosja of obstructing the process. He argued that Kosova no longer functions as a state.

He stated, “There is no attempt to find a solution, no reflection on the consequences, and no empathy for citizens. Despite the Constitutional Court’s clear advice to seek compromise and mutual trust, Albin Kurti and his party chose stubbornness over responsibility. This attitude now outweighs democracy and statehood. Kosova is heading into unknown territory, into a dangerous constitutional, institutional, and social void. The state has no compass and citizens have no clear address”.

Similarly, Lumir Abdixhiku, head of the Democratic League of Kosova, blamed acting Prime Minister Albin Kurti. He said Kurti refuses to respect the Constitutional Court’s decisions.

Abdixhiku explained, “We are clear. Albin Kurti must respect the Constitutional Court’s decision. It grants him not only the right but also the responsibility to build a majority. Furthermore, Kurti must respect the Supreme Court’s ruling, which prohibits him, his ministers, and the entire cabinet from simultaneously holding legislative and executive positions. He has become a usurper of state institutions. The Supreme Court confirmed this. He remains in office only because this country still lacks a prosecutor and police force willing to enforce the law”.

German Ambassador: Political Class Fails Its Citizens

Since April 15, deputies have repeatedly tried and failed to form the new Assembly. In response, civil society and non-governmental organizations have urged them to act responsibly. Later, ambassadors from the QUINT states and the European Union also joined the calls.

On Friday, several diplomats even attended the session, hoping deputies would prioritize state interests over party agendas.

The European Union’s ambassador to Kosova, Aivo Orav, said, “Kosova needs an Assembly immediately.” He emphasized the urgency of a new government that could strengthen ties with Brussels and “build a strong bridge between Kosova and the EU”.

Echoing this concern, the German ambassador, Jorn Rohde, said the political class is failing the people.

He warned, “Citizens voted on February 9. It’s now almost six months, yet the Assembly still hasn’t formed. This is a red card for the political class”.

British ambassador Jonathan Hargreaves also urged Kosova’s politicians to unite and break the deadlock.

He remarked, “Kosova is entering uncharted territory. Its citizens continue to lack meaningful representation and the ability to make key national and international decisions that impact their lives.”

Court Warns of Irreparable Harm to Constitutional Order

After issuing the temporary measure, the Constitutional Court warned of serious risks.

It stated, “If MPs continue to act past July 26 without the court’s decision, their actions could cause irreparable damage to Kosova’s constitutional order and key state institutions”.

On July 22, President Vjosa Osmani submitted two requests to the Constitutional Court. First, she asked the Court to clarify the legal consequences if the Assembly fails to form by July 26. Second, she requested a temporary freeze on the 30-day deadline until a final decision is issued.

Thus, legal uncertainty continues. Until the Court issues its ruling, Kosova will remain without newly established institutions.

/a.p./