The Serbian List is not certified in local elections, OSCE: Exclusion undermines democratic pluralism

Balkans

The Serbian List is not certified in local elections, OSCE: Exclusion undermines democratic pluralism

The OSCE mission in Kosovo has reacted after the decision of the Central Election Commission not to certify the Serbian List in the October 12 elections.

In a statement, the OSCE points out that the right to participate in free and fair elections is the cornerstone of democratic government and an indispensable element of inclusive political life.

According to the mission, the exclusion of political actors damages democratic pluralism, weakens the citizens’ trust in institutions and restricts the fair representation of communities in Kosovo.

“The OSCE Mission in Kosovo reaffirms that the right to participate in free and fair elections is a cornerstone of democratic governance and an essential element of comprehensive political life. The Central Election Commission has played a key role in promoting election standards in Kosovo for many years. rightly.

The mission emphasizes that the full and true participation of all communities in the electoral process is essential for long -term sustainability, integrity and democratic stability. The mission will continue to closely monitor the situation, including subsequent legal procedures that may be conducted through the Panel of Complaints and Electoral Lays (ECAP) in response to the decision not to certify the Serbian List, ”reads the OSCE statement.

The Central Election Commission in Kosovo did not certify the Serbian List for participating in the October 12 local elections, where the main opposition came from representatives of the Vetevendosje Movement, who stated that some Serbian List candidates are under investigation in Kosovo and that the party has “terrorist heritage”.

Representatives of other parties also abstained by saying that certification should be based on official information from security institutions.