EU: Preventing a party from participating in elections due to political reasons would be a serious setback for Kosovo

The European Union stated today that preventing any party from participating in elections due to political reasons would be a serious setback for Kosovo. They also emphasized that the responsibility to safeguard democratic guarantees lies with all members of the Central Election Commission (CEC), regardless of their political affiliation.

“The EU and its Member States have underlined in the 17 December Council conclusions the positive developments in Kosovo regarding the electoral framework, based on EU’s recommendations, ahead of the 9 February elections. While Kosovo and its citizens enjoy a vivid democracy, the non-certification of a political party because of political considerations rather than legal procedures would be a serious setback,” the EU statement reads.

They emphasize that all eligible candidates should have the opportunity to participate in free and fair elections, in full compliance with Kosovo law.

They also point out that the certification process must be based on legal standards and procedures in accordance with the applicable law, rather than political considerations.

The EU also emphasizes that the electoral process should be transparent, credible, and free from political interference.

“We expect the Central Election Commission, whose role in overseeing elections is crucial, to now ensure with all applicable mechanisms an inclusive, credible, and transparent electoral process, enabling Kosovo voters to clearly express their choices. The responsibility to safeguard democratic guarantees lies with all CEC members in spite of their political affiliation. Such a fundamental issue must not be politicized and used as an item in the electoral campaign,” the European Union’s message concludes.