Kosovo PM wins poll despite fraud allegations

Despite allegations of irregularities, official results in Kosovo’s general election show a win for the prime minister’s party. But with just over 33 per cent, Hashim Thaci and his PDK will still need to form a coalition.

However, rival LDK leader Isa Mustaffa and other party leaders are calling for a re-run in two Thaci strongholds where turnout was way above the national average.

Meanwhile, US support for the election, Kosovo’s first since its unilateral declaration of independence, reflects Washington’s keenness for political stability.

Mark Toner of the US State Department said: “Kosovo’s institutions must demonstrate to the public that they are prepared to defend the integrity of the vote. And we call on Kosovo’s authorities to take the required actions to address irregularities, process complaints and appeals fairly, as well as ensure that the final results of Kosovo’s elections accurately reflect the voters’ intent.”

But Serbs in the divided town of Mitrovica boycotted the poll, indicating a lingering resentment since Pristina broke away from Belgrade.

European monitors said they were aware of some fraud allegations but have dismissed their impact on the final result, urging Kosovo to press ahead with forming a new government.

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