Baraliu: Self-Determination has the right to a second attempt, elections are not the solution

Professor of Constitutional Law Mazlum Baraliu stated, after Kosovo’s caretaker Prime Minister Albin Kurti nominated Glauk Konjufca as the candidate for the formation of a new government, that the Self-Determination Movement (Vetëvendosje) has the right to make a second attempt to form the Government of Kosovo, and that new elections would not resolve the political crisis.

“Of course, the second attempt is allowed under the Constitution, and that attempt should be made. If a vote takes place — and perhaps they have secured 61 votes — it would be better than holding new elections. That would not be a solution for anyone — not for the citizens, not for the state, nor for the political parties. It would be a good test for all of us to fulfill the obligations that both the country and we as citizens have toward the institutions, and the institutions toward the citizens, to resolve some problems. I think that’s a better solution for this moment,” said Baraliu.

He emphasized that Self-Determination must now convince the President of Kosovo, Vjosa Osmani, that it has the necessary majority.

“Certainly, the Constitution requires the President to be convinced that whoever is nominated for Prime Minister has a sufficient number of votes and a cabinet that could secure support — not only from political parties, but this time perhaps even from individual members. Some deputies, regardless of their party’s position, may vote for Konjufca,” Baraliu added.

According to him, if Self-Determination does not have the required majority, it will rely on the respect Konjufca enjoys among members of parliament.

“In that case, if Self-Determination lacks a majority, it will depend on the goodwill and respect toward Mr. Konjufca himself — who is quite tolerant and who cooperated well during the eighth parliamentary term with opposition parties and all MPs — which could lead them to vote for Konjufca,” Baraliu concluded.