PRISTINA, Kosovo — Citizens across Kosovo returned to the polling stations this Sunday for a high-stakes snap election, marking the nation’s second attempt in 2025 to install a stable government and end a grueling cycle of political instability.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!From Stalemate to Snap Election
The crisis began following the February 9 general election, where Prime Minister Albin Kurti’s Vetëvendosje party secured the most votes but failed to achieve an outright majority. Months of failed coalition negotiations followed, leaving the 120-seat Assembly paralyzed.
The impasse reached a breaking point this autumn when the constitutional deadline for government formation passed without an agreement, forcing President Vjosa Osmani to dissolve parliament and call for today’s vote.
Why Today Matters
The stakes for this second round of voting go beyond simple party politics, affecting the country’s economic and diplomatic standing:
- Financial Paralysis: Without a functioning government, the 2026 national budget remains unpassed. Vital infrastructure projects and public sector salaries are at risk, and over €1 billion in EU development aid is currently frozen.
- Strained Alliances: The campaign has focused heavily on Kosovo’s relationship with the West. While Kurti has maintained a hardline stance toward Serbia, opposition rivals like the PDK and LDK have campaigned on “restoring trust” with Washington and Brussels to lift existing diplomatic sanctions.
- Voter Fatigue: Experts are closely watching turnout. After nearly a year of political bickering, there are fears that voter disillusionment could lead to a lower turnout, potentially favoring smaller, fringe parties.
What to Watch For
| Milestone | Timeline (Local Time) |
| Polls Close | 7:00 PM (18:00 GMT) |
| Exit Polls | Expected immediately after polls close |
| Preliminary Results | Expected by midnight |
