“The MPs of the Serbian List did not vote for the candidate for president of Kosovo, but only participated in the Parliament session during which the president was elected, because we want to behave responsibly and protect our people,” said Slavko Simic, the president of the Serbian List.

However, participation in the session gave the necessary quorum for the election of the President of Kosovo, Hashim Thaci, whom the Serbian courts sentenced to ten years in prison for terrorism, and who is also suspected for trafficking organs of kidnapped Serbs? 

Whether we like it or not, Hashim Thaci, unfortunately, represents the majority of Albanians in Kosovo, leads the strongest political party in Kosovo, and has been part of its politics since the arrival of the international community. Thus, even by participating in the elections, we were aware of whom we need to cooperate with, and faced with the following dilemma - take it, or leave... However, we felt that by participating in political life we could contribute to the improvement of life and survival of Serbs in Kosovo as well their return.

There is speculation that ahead of the meeting, you submitted a list of demands to Thaci in exchange for participation in the meeting at which he was elected and in which he thanked the Serbian List for support? 

It is known that our people in Kosovo are faced with numerous problems. The essential problems such as security, usurpation of property, illegal privatization are still not resolved. Also a key part of the coalition agreement with the Albanian political parties, which is Association / Community of Serb Municipalities has not yet been met. Therefore, we will continue to insist on the fulfilment of those conditions that will contribute to a better life for our people in the province. Also, we will insist on the implementation of the agreements reached in Brussels, especially those of key importance to the Serbs.

Did Belgrade authorities influence your decision to be at the session? 

We are aware of our responsibility, but also obligation before our people. The decision to attend the meeting at which the president of Kosovo was elected was taken by the members of the Serbian List, without influence from outside. Insinuations at the expense of Prime Minister Aleksandar Vucic and his influence on our decision are funny. The decision was made independently, after a series of consultations and agreements.