Kosovo’s opposition Democratic League of Kosovo (LDK) has agreed in principle to run in a joint electoral list with former president Vjosa Osmani in the June 7 snap elections, party leader Lumir Abdixhiku said, signaling a potential shift in the country’s fragmented political landscape.
Speaking to media in Prishtina, Abdixhiku said the agreement still needs to be formally approved by party structures, with a final decision expected in the coming days.
“We have agreed to formalize cooperation with Vjosa Osmani for a joint run in the upcoming elections,” Abdixhiku said, adding that discussions with Osmani are ongoing ahead of a vote in the party’s General Council.
He declined to clarify whether Osmani would rejoin LDK or participate through a separate political structure.
Osmani, whose presidential mandate ended in April after failing to secure parliamentary backing for a second term, has indicated she will compete in the elections but has not specified under which banner.
In recent weeks, she has intensified field visits across Kosovo and introduced potential candidates, including activist and entrepreneur Fahrije Hoti, suggesting preparations for an electoral list.
Osmani began her political career in LDK, serving multiple terms as a lawmaker before leaving the party in 2020 and aligning with Prime Minister Albin Kurti through the GUXO initiative.
Analysts say her return to active politics could reshape competition, particularly as opposition parties struggle with leadership and messaging.
Donika Emini, a researcher at the Balkans in Europe Policy Advisory Group, described Osmani as a “different profile” capable of attracting voters across party lines.
“She can draw support from dissatisfied voters, both from the ruling camp and the opposition,” Emini said, adding that her candidacy could “disrupt existing balances” rather than simply mobilize a single bloc.
Kosovo is heading to early parliamentary elections on June 7 after lawmakers failed to elect a new president within constitutional deadlines, triggering the dissolution of parliament.
The vote will mark the third parliamentary election in less than 18 months, contributing to what analysts describe as growing voter fatigue and political instability.