Muhaxhiri: Kosovo Equally Close to a New Government and Snap Elections

Political analyst Artan Muhaxhiri assessed that Kosovo is equally close to forming a new government and holding snap elections, with the outcome depending entirely on the willingness of political actors to compromise and the fact that the mandate of such a coalition would be predetermined.

"The chances are 50:50. Every scenario is on the table, and anything is possible. Kurti could form a government with Nisma and minority parties, but it is also possible for opposition parties to unite and form a government. New elections are also an option. Everything will depend on the goodwill of all leaders, but the election results provide many different possibilities since there is no clear majority as there was four years ago," Muhaxhiri told Kosovo Online.

He emphasized that the key to resolving the post-election puzzle lies in the pragmatism of political leaders.

"Whoever forms the government will have to make a lot of compromises. Kurti or the opposition will have to share power with numerous actors. However, I believe that in any case, it will not be possible for this government to last four years because, regardless of which side forms it, I do not think it will be stable, and we will likely see new elections," Muhaxhiri said.

He pointed to two key reasons: the presidential elections scheduled for next spring and international pressure on Pristina regarding the dialogue process.

"Especially when it comes to the Trump administration, once Kosovo comes into their focus," the analyst stressed.

While he does not entirely rule out the possibility that multiple MPs leaving the Self-Determination Movement could deprive the party of its majority, Muhaxhiri doubts this will happen.

"That option always exists, but I do not believe it will happen because Self-Determination has a very tight internal structure and strong cohesion. So far, everyone who has left Self-Determination has struggled to continue their political career. It has been difficult for them to find a strong position in the parties they joined. Therefore, if it happens, it will be short-lived, as they will not manage to sustain themselves. Moreover, I believe Kurti has ways to prevent it, and they are aware that switching parties will not end well for them," Muhaxhiri concluded.