PRISTINA, March 5 (Reuters) - Kosovo's parliament missed the deadline to elect a new president on Thursday, plunging the country into a fresh political crisis that could trigger another snap election.
Kosovo's parliament fails to elect president, risking new election
Political Crisis Unfolds in Kosovo
PRISTINA, March 5 (Reuters) - Kosovo's parliament missed the deadline to elect a new president on Thursday, plunging the country into a fresh political crisis that could trigger another snap election.
Parliamentary Deadlock
The 120-seat assembly had until midnight to vote for a head of state, but Prime Minister Albin Kurti's ruling party, Vetevendosje, was unable to bring opposition lawmakers on board and vote for its candidate.
Opposition's Stance and Candidate Nomination
The opposition parties have asked for a consensual candidate, but Kurti has nominated his foreign minister, Glauk Konjufca. "There is no quorum to continue this session... we cannot proceed with the vote," speaker of the parliament Albulena Haxhiu said, noting that only 66 lawmakers were present, well below the 80 required.
Potential for New Snap Election
If a snap election is called, it would be the third parliamentary vote in just over a year. Kosovo already held a snap election on December 28 after failing to form a government following the February 2025 poll.
Opposition Parties Call for Action
The two largest opposition parties, the Democratic Party of Kosovo and the Democratic League of Kosovo, have urged the president to call fresh elections.
Next Steps and Presidential Response
Outgoing President Vjosa Osmani, who has another month in office, is expected to outline the way forward on Friday.
Reporting Credits
(Reporting by Fatos BytyciEditing by Bill Berkrot)
