Kosovo’s Ethnic Serb Party Denounces Election Ban as Political Violence
Kosovo’s ethnic Serb party has condemned its exclusion from the upcoming elections as ‘political violence,’ asserting that the decision was influenced by Prime Minister Albin Kurti for political gain. The Central Election Commission justified the ban based on the party’s nationalist stance. This development intensifies existing tensions between Kosovo and Serbia, especially with the parliamentary elections approaching.
Kosovo’s principal ethnic Serb political party has denounced its exclusion from the forthcoming parliamentary elections as a manifestation of ‘institutional and political violence’ directed against ethnic Serbs. Zlatan Elek, a representative of the Srpska Lista party, voiced concerns that this ban was orchestrated by Prime Minister Albin Kurti to secure political advantages. In response to being denied certification by the Central Election Commission, Elek announced plans to contest the ruling, citing the commission’s justification of their nationalist positions and affiliations with Serbia.
Kosovo, which was once a province of Serbia, declared its independence in 2008, a status not recognized by Serbia, which continues to regard Kosovo as part of its territory. The tension between the two nations stems from the historical conflict characterized by a violent war in the late 1990s, resulting in substantial loss of life, predominantly among ethnic Albanians. The upcoming parliamentary elections on February 9 are viewed as a critical moment for Prime Minister Kurti’s government, especially regarding ongoing negotiations with Serbia urged by the European Union. The ethnic Serb minority, represented mainly by Srpska Lista, holds significant political leverage in Kosovo’s parliament.
The exclusion of Kosovo’s ethnic Serb party from the imminent parliamentary elections raises significant concerns about political inclusivity and the treatment of minority rights in Kosovo. The Srpska Lista’s claims of political violence underscore the ongoing challenges faced in interethnic relations within the region. As the elections approach, the international community watches closely, apprehensive of escalating tensions between Kosovo and Serbia, prompted by such contentious political actions.
Original Source: abcnews.go.com
