Kosovo’s Parliament deadlock continues as VV fails for sixth time to elect Speaker
Kosovo’s political stalemate deepened Thursday as the Assembly failed for the sixth time to elect its Speaker, leaving the country without a functioning parliament more than two months after elections. The ruling Vetëvendosje (VV) party once again put forward Albulena Haxhiu as its nominee—but for the fourth time in a row she failed to receive the required 61 votes.
Why is this important: The continued failure to elect a Speaker is blocking the constitution of parliament and the formation of a new government. With only 57 votes in favor, Haxhiu’s candidacy has stalled, facing opposition from the main opposition parties. Critics, including opposition leader Memli Krasniqi, accuse VV of intentionally dragging out the process despite knowing their nominee lacks support. Without a resolution, Kosovo could face snap elections as early as May.
Context: “Albulena Haxhiu doesn’t pass. If they wanted a solution, they had the chance today, two days ago, and four days ago. They can still fix this—just propose another deputy,” said PDK chairman Memli Krasniqi.
Krasniqi blamed the impasse on VV’s insistence to back Haxhiu, even though she has repeatedly failed to win the vote. “It’s absurd and shameful that the state is held hostage to the whims of one individual,” he added.
VV currently lacks the majority needed to form a government. The repeated failure to secure a vote for Speaker suggests broader problems ahead for the ruling party, including passing legislation or appointing a cabinet.
Meanwhile, Nisma Socialdemokrate leader Fatmir Limaj confirmed that his party’s stance remains unchanged and they will not vote in favor of Haxhiu.
What’s next: According to parliamentary rules, the Assembly cannot be constituted without electing its leadership. If the deadlock persists, the only path forward may be the dissolution of parliament and the calling of new elections—a scenario increasingly discussed among political analysts.
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