Kosovo held peaceful elections, EU mission criticizes Government for negative language against media
NEWS
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1 months ago
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Head of the EU Election Observation Mission, Nathalie Loiseau, assessed the conduct of the elections, emphasizing that election day in Kosovo was peaceful and that “voters were able to vote in good conditions.” She added that these are positive signals that show citizens’ commitment to democracy.
In a press conference, Loiseau expressed her concern about the negative language from the current ruling party, LVV, against the media and the judiciary. Loiseau underlined that there should be full transparency about what is not going well, while she spoke about the difficulties during the counting phase. Speaking to journalists, while talking about the electoral process, she said that during the conversation some reported pressure from members of the Serbian List on voters, adding that there was continuous and repeated interference from Serbia.
While worryingly, he said to the media that negative language from the ruling party remains.
“Electoral groups should remain independent from political influences, however, we have seen cases of politicization of the Central Election Commission during the election process. We have noted one concern, the blockage of the CEC which prevented it from taking any decisions during the campaign. On the other hand, the electoral complaints and appeals panel, ECAP, has been faced with a high volume of cases and demonstrated its ability to make quick decisions. We have noted with concern the negative language from the ruling party against the media and the judiciary. The boycott of specific media outlets and debates has also contributed to reducing the opportunities for voters to make good and informed choices. However, broadcasters have given equal airtime to all parties, but this has not been used by all. The campaign in Kosovo municipalities with a Serb majority was more restrained compared to other municipalities. Many interlocutors reported pressure from members of the Serbian List on voters and there was continuous and repeated interference from Serbia. she added.
Meanwhile, Loiseau also mentioned the statements of the US special envoy, Richard Grenell, according to her, "the same can be described as something with a not very diplomatic tone."
