Serbian List non-participation in extraordinary elections in the north, QUINT states react

Through a communiqué released to the media, it has called for all parties avoiding violence, “which could undermine the election's prosperity”.

The “Embassys of France, Germany, Italy, the United Kingdom and the United States agree that, following the postponement of municipal elections in December 2022, four mayoral elections and two municipal assembly elections will be held on 23 April 2023, in accordance with legal requirements. We regret that the Republika Srpska List did not take advantage of the democratic right to participate in these elections”, said the communique.

The elections are the foundation of democracy. It is essential to ensure that they are maintained in a peaceful and orderly manner. We expect the relevant authorities to act professionally”, the communiqué follows.

“Call on all sides to exercise restraint and avoid violence, which could undermine the election.”, the announcement concludes.

On April 23rd, extraordinary elections are expected to be held for the chairmanship of four municipalities -- northern Mitrovica, Leposaviq, Zubin Potok and Zvecan ) -- and early elections for the two municipal municipalities of Zvecan and Leposaviq. These elections were originally scheduled for December 18th, but were postponed as a result of tensions in the north.

 

Same as in December, this time again, the Serbian List said it would not participate in the April 23rd elections.

 

This makes it more clear that Kosovo and the Central Election Commission are trying to unilaterally organise elections in northern Kosovo, without respecting the legitimate interests of the Serbian people, against the will of citizens”, Thursday's statement said. /Periscopi/