The Prishtina Municipal Assembly is discussing the draft budget for 2026. Although the mayor of the capital, Përparim Rama, was not present, this budget of around 150 million euros was considered transformative for Prishtina. However, it faced criticism from the Vetëvendosje Movement, which stated that the budget increase is due to central-level funding.
Finance Director Valbona Ahmeti-Makolli said that over 60 million euros are allocated for capital investments in the draft budget, highlighting projects that, according to her, will be completed within this fiscal year.
“The 2026 draft budget has been prepared in accordance with the applicable legal framework and the municipal development strategy, and based on the budget circular from the Ministry of Finance. The entire budget of the capital is divided into five economic categories: salaries and allowances for 2026 amount to 48.3 million euros, goods and services 32 million, municipal expenses 3.5 million, subsidies and transfers 6 million, and capital investments 60.8 million. This budget is set as a transformative version for the capital, starting with major projects, most of which are under implementation and some nearing completion. It is worth noting that among the largest projects expected to finish this fiscal year are the George Bush Square project, Road A, the Agim Ramadani underpass project, the inner ring road, and the urban island,” she said.
The budget was criticized by Vetëvendosje Assembly leader Gëzim Sveçla, who called the absence of Mayor Përparim Rama a serious irresponsibility.
He also criticized PDK, saying it serves Mayor Rama.
“The absence of the mayor of Prishtina at this session is extremely unacceptable and shows great irresponsibility. For the public’s sake, it should be noted that together with PDK during the previous mandate, many budget sessions failed precisely because of Mayor Rama’s absence. Mayor Rama is not here, circumstances have not changed, but PDK has. This increase is a result of the central government’s budget growth and the fiscal redistribution policies of the Kosovo Government. In no way or under any local governance variant… it is alarming that three major projects face legal issues and are being reviewed by justice authorities. We are talking about George Bush Square, the Arbëria connection to the center, and the Agim Ramadani road tunnel,” he emphasized.
Assembly member from the Guxo List, Jeton Mehmeti, also considered the budget weak and not comprehensive.
“Prishtina is not only George Bush Square, urban platforms, and the urban island. Prishtina also includes Marevci, Grashtica, Hajvalia, Mramori, and the Gollak areas,” he stated.
Meanwhile, the budget received support from the Democratic League of Kosovo, the League for Prishtina, and the Social Democratic Initiative.
