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Kosovo Election: Albin Kurti Secures Landslide Victory

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  Published in Politics and Government on Monday, December 29th 2025 at 9:45 GMT

Kosovo Shakes Up Politics as Albin Kurti Secures Stunning Electoral Victory

Kosovo has experienced a significant political upheaval following snap elections held on Sunday, February 18th, with Prime Minister Albin Kurti’s Self-Determination Movement (LVV) achieving a landslide victory that reshapes the country's political landscape. The results, described by many as an "earthquake," represent a remarkable comeback for Kurti after his coalition government collapsed just months ago and highlight a growing dissatisfaction among voters with established political figures.

The LVV secured 47% of the vote, translating to 58 out of 120 seats in parliament – a substantial increase from the 32 they held previously. This dominant performance effectively grants Kurti a mandate to form a new government without needing coalition partners, a scenario that had been uncertain just weeks prior. The Democratic League of Kosovo (LDK), historically one of the country’s main political forces, suffered a dramatic decline, securing only 17% and 14 seats – their worst result in decades. The Democratic Party of Kosovo (PDK), led by Memli Krasniqi, also saw a decrease in support, claiming around 16.8% and 15 seats. Smaller parties like the Serbian List, representing Kosovan Serbs, secured nine seats, reflecting the continued complexities surrounding minority representation within the country.

The Context: A Government Collapse and Rising Tensions

To understand the significance of Kurti’s victory, it's crucial to grasp the events leading up to the snap election. Kurti’s government faced a vote of no confidence in October 2023 after disagreements with coalition partners – particularly the LDK and the Democratic Alliance of Kosovo (AAK) – over how to handle ongoing tensions with Serbia and, crucially, regarding a controversial deal brokered by European mediators concerning license plates for vehicles entering Kosovo from Serbia. This agreement, intended to ease friction, was widely criticized within Kosovo as being overly conciliatory towards Belgrade and infringing on Kosovan sovereignty. The collapse underscored the fragility of coalitions in Kosovo’s often-volatile political environment and highlighted deep divisions over foreign policy and national identity.

Kurti's stance has consistently been one of assertive independence from Serbia, rejecting compromises he deems detrimental to Kosovo's interests. He advocates for full integration into European institutions and a firm rejection of any attempts by Belgrade to undermine Kosovo’s statehood. This hardline approach resonated with many Kosovars who feel that previous governments have not adequately defended the country’s sovereignty.

Why Kurti Resurged: A Vote For Change and Anti-Establishment Sentiment

Several factors contributed to Kurti's unexpected resurgence. Firstly, his strong stance against Serbia, while controversial in some circles, proved popular with a significant portion of the electorate who are wary of Belgrade’s continued attempts to exert influence over Kosovo. The license plate dispute, in particular, galvanized support for Kurti, portraying him as a defender of national interests.

Secondly, there was palpable anti-establishment sentiment at play. The LDK and PDK have been dominant forces in Kosovan politics since the country declared independence from Serbia in 2008. Many voters view these parties as entrenched and out of touch with the concerns of ordinary citizens. Kurti’s LVV, positioned as an outsider movement focused on tackling corruption and improving public services, tapped into this desire for change. His campaign emphasized transparency, accountability, and a break from the perceived failings of previous administrations.

Furthermore, Kurti's youthfulness and relatively clean image appealed to younger voters who are increasingly disillusioned with traditional politics. He successfully utilized social media and modern campaigning techniques to connect with this demographic. [As mentioned in the Strait Times article, he is often compared to Bernie Sanders.] The election also saw a high turnout, suggesting a renewed engagement from citizens eager to participate in shaping Kosovo’s future.

Challenges Ahead: Serbia Relations and EU Integration

Despite his resounding victory, Kurti faces significant challenges. Relations with Serbia remain deeply strained, and finding a sustainable path towards normalization will be crucial for regional stability and Kosovo's aspirations for EU membership. While he has demonstrated a willingness to engage in dialogue, his uncompromising stance often makes progress difficult. The Serbian List’s continued presence in parliament also presents an obstacle, as their support is essential for any meaningful legislation affecting the Serb community.

EU integration remains a key priority for Kosovo, but progress has been slow and hampered by political instability and concerns over rule of law. Kurti will need to address these concerns and demonstrate tangible reforms to convince Brussels that Kosovo is ready for membership. The recent agreement on license plates, even though it sparked the government's downfall, highlights the delicate balance between asserting national sovereignty and maintaining good relations with key international partners.

Looking Forward: A More Stable Future?

Kurti’s landslide victory offers a potential opportunity to bring greater stability to Kosovo’s political landscape. With a clear mandate, he has the chance to implement his agenda without the constraints of coalition compromises. However, success will depend on his ability to bridge divisions within Kosovar society, navigate complex relations with Serbia, and demonstrate commitment to reforms that satisfy EU requirements. The coming months will be critical in determining whether Kurti can deliver on the promises made during this historic election and usher in a new era for Kosovo.

I hope this article provides a comprehensive summary of the Strait Times piece while adding context and analysis.