Baraliu: There is no Osmani-Kurti conflict, disagreements happen even in families

Professor of Constitutional Law at the University of Pristina, Mazllum Baraliu, asserts that differing views on political issues do not imply a conflict between President Vjosa Osmani and Prime Minister Albin Kurti.

“They decided together to form a government and coalition because it was in the interest of the country and their political parties at that moment. This does not mean they agree on everything, and they haven’t,” Baraliu explained to Kosovo Online.

He adds that the essence of their differences lies in their approach to problems.

“The Prime Minister has certain stances that appear to be firmer towards the international community. There are some things he cannot accept. The President is more tolerant and has more experience in politics as she comes from the LDK political party, which is known for being more tolerant and more inclined towards international cooperation and relations. The Prime Minister’s party is not of the same nature. However, this government is, for the first time, completing a full four-year term very stably, despite obstacles like the pandemic, the energy crisis, and other economic problems due to the war in Ukraine. There have been many problems and obstacles, but it has worked steadily, and I think it will finish its term stably. What will happen next, we’ll see after the new elections,” Baraliu told Kosovo Online.

He adds that these disagreements became publicly visible after Foreign Minister Donika Gervalla-Schwarz, on behalf of the government and in cooperation with the Prime Minister, sent a letter to the Council of Europe in mid-May.

“Osmani reacted publicly to that. There were other instances as well, and those of us who follow this scientifically and professionally see that her tone was different. Of course, she did not openly oppose it because that would mean the collapse of the coalition, but through appropriate nuances, she often had a different opinion on certain issues,” Baraliu emphasized.
However, he does not consider these discordant tones to be a serious disruption of their relations.

“Despite their disagreements, they have managed to overcome them and bridge their differences to reach a unified stance. That’s why they are going to complete their mandate. So, I don’t see any serious situation. Differences exist. But differences also exist in families, let alone in the government. Especially since we are under international community pressure and have certain sanctions that negatively affect us economically and politically, in any way you look at it,” Baraliu explained.

He reminds that the differences also stem from the fact that Osmani comes from the right, and Kurti from the left of the political spectrum, so it is logical that they do not share the same ideological views, and their duties are also different.

“They have separate duties and tasks. The Prime Minister has responsibilities and executive powers, while the President, according to Article 84 of the Kosovo Constitution, has exactly 30 different responsibilities, including those related to international and foreign policies. Separate duties and responsibilities, as well as orientations,” Baraliu concluded.