Polls in Kosovo opened Sunday after a hard-fought campaign in which candidates from the opposition challenged Prime Minister Albin Kurti over the economy, corruption, and the country’s ties with neighbouring Serbia.
A leftist and Albanian nationalist, Kurti has headed Kosovo since 2021 when his Vetevendosje party won with a decisive margin. His government has strengthened the government reach in the Serb-dominated north, which has boosted his popularity among the voters. However, critics state that he has exacerbated Kosovo’s relationship with the EU and the US, and he has not been able to improve elementary sectors like education and healthcare.
“It’s a new day. I thank all citizens who have already voted and encourage everyone to do the same,” Kurti said after casting his ballot.
The EU imposed economic sanctions on Kosovo in 2023 after escalating tensions with ethnic Serbs made it cut €150 million ($155 million) in funding. A loss for Kurti’s party below 50% of votes could require negotiations with possible partners following the vote.
The center-right Democratic League of Kosovo and the Democratic Party of Kosovo, among others, are campaigning on strengthening ties with the US and EU, NATO membership, and economic development.
Kosovo, which declared independence from Serbia in 2008 with US support, remains embroiled in tensions. Kurti insists his policies promote integration between ethnic Albanians and Serbs, though his nationalist rhetoric has raised concerns.
Voting will be done from 7 a.m. until 7 p.m. Exit polls are soon to come. Nearly two million registered voters are expected to vote to decide on the political fate of the country, as election rhetoric has proven divisive and fines for campaign exceeded €650,000.
