Bugaqku: Early elections the only solution to overcome the political deadlock

Researcher at the Kosovo Democratic Institute (KDI) Vullnet Bugaqku said that following yesterday’s failed attempt to elect a new government, early elections are the best way to overcome the political deadlock, even though, procedurally, there is still room to form a government, Ekonomia Online reported.

Bugaqku noted that a situation like yesterday’s – where the prime minister-designate failed to secure a majority – has not been seen since Kosovo declared independence.

“Now, procedurally speaking, the next steps are clear. At KDI, as we emphasized yesterday, we believe that despite the fact that there is room for procedural action to elect a government, early elections are the best way to unblock the situation,” Bugaqku stated.

According to him, in the absence of political will for compromise, President Vjosa Osmani can call new elections, which must be held no later than 40 days after the dissolution of parliament.

“Since the prime minister-designate failed to form a government, starting today the president is obliged to invite all parties for consultations within 10 days. These consultations can be held separately with each party or jointly with all political entities to see whether there is a possibility for any of them to propose another candidate who could potentially form a government. During these talks, the president may conclude, in the absence of political readiness, will, and guarantees that any political party can secure a majority of 61 deputies, that forming a new government is not possible. This would pave the way for calling early elections, which, according to the legal deadline, must be held no later than 40 days after the dissolution of the Assembly,” Bugaqku explained.

He added that early elections remain the most likely option for overcoming the political stalemate.

“In line with the court’s ruling, the Constitutional Court in a way requires the president to make maximum efforts within 10 days to invite the parties for consultations and determine whether there is room for a political compromise, either for an inclusive or a technical government, since we have some very important laws that should be adopted in the Assembly, such as the budget law and international agreements. However, considering the political statements, there is nothing left but to call early elections,” Bugaqku said.