Council of Europe presses Kurti to fully depoliticize the CEC
A new Council of Europe report puts the spotlight on the independence of Kosovo Central Election Commission.
PRISTINA — The Council of Europe has called on Prime Minister Albin Kurti to fully depoliticize the Central Election Commission, Nacionale reports, putting the independence of the body that oversees electoral processes in Kosovo at center stage.
According to the outlet, the report identifies political influence over CEC membership and decision-making as one of the main concerns raised by European observers during recent electoral cycles.
The recommendation arrives just as the scenario of new parliamentary elections is being placed on the table, and the credibility of the electoral administration will be a major test for Kosovo and for its international partners.
What is concretely demanded
According to Nacionale, the Council of Europe is asking for a clear separation between political and technical roles within the CEC, transparent criteria for appointments, and stronger underlying legislation. The aim is that no political party gains an advantage through commission membership.
Reactions across the political spectrum have been mixed. Some opposition voices have demanded immediate reform, while LVV stresses that any reform must be done by consensus and without narrow partisan interests.
According to the Council of Europe document cited by Nacionale, depoliticizing the CEC is a “condition for the integrity of future elections” in the Republic of Kosovo.
If Kosovo enters a new electoral cycle before these recommendations are implemented, pressure on institutions and parties will rise, and the next Council of Europe report is expected to be even more critical.
Source: Nacionale