Kosovo election authorities bar Serb Party from participating in upcoming local elections in October
The Kosovo Central Election Commission (CEC) has made a divisive decision, barring the Serb List (Srpska Lista) from participating in the upcoming local elections on October 12. The decision, which has been met with strong reactions across the political spectrum, was made in a vote that reflected deep divisions within the commission.
Officials from the governing Vetevendosje movement, who spearheaded the opposition, argued that several Srpska Lista candidates were linked to Serbia-run parallel institutions in Kosovo. This allegation, if proven, would undermine the democratic process and potentially breach Kosovo's election laws.
However, Serbia's Foreign Minister Marko Duric condemned the CEC's decision, branding it as "political engineering" intended to silence the Serbian minority. He urged the international community to intervene, arguing that such actions erode trust and run counter to democratic principles.
Acting Minister of Justice Albulena Haxhiu praised the CEC's decision, calling it "an important victory for democracy." She stated that Srpska Lista's alleged ties to the Banjska attack justified preventing the party from participating in the elections.
The reactions to the CEC's decision have been highly polarized. While some view it as a necessary step to ensure fair elections, others see it as a threat to the rights of the Serbian minority.
Under Kosovo law, the CEC's decision can be appealed by filing a case with the Electoral Complaints and Appeals Panel (ECAP) within 24 working hours. ECAP must issue a ruling within 48 hours thereafter. Analysts predict that, in line with legal precedent, ECAP could overturn the CEC's decision, similar to what occurred during the 2025 parliamentary elections, when a CEC ban on Srpska Lista was overturned on appeal.
As the deadline for appealing the CEC's decision approaches, tensions remain high in Kosovo, with both sides eagerly awaiting the outcome. The decision to exclude Srpska Lista from the upcoming elections has sparked a heated debate, highlighting the complexities of ethnic relations in the region.
