Kosovo’s Central Election Commission (CEC) has refused to certify the Serb List party for the October 12 local elections, prompting sharp criticism from Western embassies and the European Union, which warned that the move undermines democratic principles.
The CEC decision failed to secure the required majority after members argued that Serb List candidates were linked to parallel structures controlled by Belgrade and not acting in the interest of Kosovo Serbs. The motion received two votes in favour, two against and seven abstentions. The Serb List, the largest party representing Kosovo Serbs, called the decision discriminatory and politically motivated, saying it stemmed from tensions with the ruling Vetëvendosje (Self-Determination) movement. The party has lodged an appeal with the Election Complaints and Appeals Panel (ECAP), which has 48 hours to respond.
The Quint countries – the United States, Germany, Britain, France and Italy – along with the EU mission in Kosovo, issued a joint statement on Friday voicing “serious concern” and urging authorities to ensure all legally eligible parties can contest the polls. “Such actions undermine fundamental democratic principles and risk eroding citizens’ trust in Kosovo’s institutions,” the statement said.
The EU separately expressed disappointment, criticising Vetëvendosje’s stance during the certification process. “Full and inclusive participation in the upcoming elections is essential for Kosovo’s democratic future and its European path,” the bloc said, adding that any exclusion of political actors contradicts the principle of equal participation of all communities. Brussels said it would closely monitor developments.
Analysts in Pristina said the refusal to certify the Serb List and another smaller Serb party may also reflect wider political manoeuvring, with Vetëvendosje accused of using the dispute to deflect attention from a stalled parliament formation process.