Head of Deutsche Welle’s Albanian service, Vilma Filaj-Ballvora, writes in an opinion piece that disagreements between political leaders in Kosovo seem to be matters of perception and irrational interpretations of the Constitutions by the Democratic Party of Kosovo (PDK), on one hand, and the post-election coalition, on the other. The entire debate right now is being focused on the post of assembly speaker and is taking place in an atmosphere of distrust and contempt. “This is not how democracy functions”, declares Filaj-Ballvora. While recent elections were overall considered free and fair, politicians, instead of acting responsibly towards the voters who elected them, are arguing over one post. Since none of the parties scored a convincing victory in June elections, what do the elected politicians want, asks the author. Political leaders need to reflect and find common grounds for the good of the citizens who trusted them with their votes. “These negotiations should take place on absolute political and programme basis and not oriented towards narrow individual interests”, writes Filaj-Ballvora.
The issue of resolving the political deadlock becomes even more pressing considering the tasks that await the new assembly, says Filaj-Ballvora further. “Pristina-Belgrade dialogue is at a standstill since the agreement for normalization of relations through the 15-point plan signed a year ago. The new country – without an army and complete independence in running justice and other rule of law institutions – is facing great restrictions”, she adds.
Last but not the least, Kosovo needs to face its past and this has to be done through establishment of the special court which will try possible crimes committed by Albanians. Furthermore, Kosovo needs to also address the issue of corruption.
“In a democratic country, it is the duty and responsibility of the politics to go beyond itself and find a compromise solution for the benefit of the country and its citizens. Kosovo political leaders have to find strength and resolve disagreements among themselves and not wait for any more solutions from the Constitutional Court, which had its say, or the President, who gave them time to reflect”, writes Filaj-Ballvora.
