Analysts: Without political consensus, the country risks new elections

Following the statement by the acting Prime Minister, Albin Kurti, that he is ready for cooperation with other parties, especially for the election of the president, those familiar with the political circumstances in the country share different opinions. While some see this as a necessary step after the clear message that voters gave through non-participation in the elections, others remain skeptical and warn of the risk of a new political blockade that could lead the country to elections again.

The declaration of the acting prime minister that he is ready to cooperate with the opposition to create institutions is being seen as the only way to avoid a new institutional crisis. University professor, Mazllum Baraliu, told Radio Kosova that he considers this declaration as a good sign and without alternative. According to him, the extremely low turnout of citizens in the elections, the lowest since 2000, was a lesson and a clear message of voters' indignation towards the behavior of the political class.

"Immediately after the constitution of the Assembly, we only have 60 days; in order not to go to another election, we need an agreement or a co-government or a consensual candidate to have the president elected, and then proceed to the election of the government," said Baraliu.

From another perspective, political science professor Dritëro Arifi suggests that cooperation should not be limited to the issue of the president. He believes that the country needs a broader and more substantive discussion on the four-year government policies, in order to build a more promising narrative and avoid scenarios of early elections.

"I think that we will not succeed only for the president, it is noticeable that there is a preparation that eventually, if something fails along the way, we will have elections again this year. The way the dialogue and public narrative are being built is not promising," he said.

Meanwhile, political analyst Shkelzen Dakaj recalls that citizens expect responsibility from the political class to prevent further delays in the processes. Regarding the post of president, he highlights the challenges that may arise in reaching a compromise between Vetëvendosje and LDK for the candidacy of Vjosa Osmani.

"It will be unthinkable if we see political games again... We may see delays for several months and perhaps the possibility of going to elections again is not ruled out," said Dakaj.

Acting Prime Minister Albin Kurti yesterday expressed optimism about the process of constituting the Assembly and forming the new Government. Regarding the election of the President, he stressed that cooperation with the opposition is needed./RTK