Osmani citizens of the north: Reject those who come to you with threats

In this statement, a day before the elections, the first of the state stresses that it understands that many of the citizens in that part of the country have been the target of threats and intimidation that have been made in recent weeks by Belgrade's supported criminal structure, in order to force your security to be guaranteed.

Read fully the statement by President Osmani about municipal elections in northern Mitrovica municipalities Zvecan, Zubin Potok and Leposaviqi.

Dear fellow citizens of the municipality of northern Mitrovica, Zvecan, Zubin Potok and Leposaviqi,

Elections are the cornerstone of each democracy, and election day is the day when your voice is heard by all. So the April 23rd elections are an important moment for you and for the future of your municipalities.

The right to vote is guaranteed with Constitutions and laws, so all citizens of Kosovo enjoy it indiscriminately. The municipalities have the responsibility of staying close to the citizens, offering services and projects that are in your interest and that solve the problems you face each day.

So through your vote you make sure that your elected representatives deal directly with issues affecting your life and create prospects for all of you. Your participation in the election means better life for all of you. So use this right at this important moment for democracy. Your vote is the most powerful means to decide for the future of your municipality and to hold elected officials accountable.

I understand that many of you have been the target of threats and intimidation that have been made in recent weeks by Belgrade-backed criminal structures, in order to force you to give up your voice and power to shape the future of your municipalities. However, I want to assure you that all Kosovo institutions are doing everything to ensure that these elections are free and fair and that your security is guaranteed.

Therefore, I urge you to reject those who come to you with threats and blackmail. I encourage you to send a strong and clear message with your participation in the April 23, 2023 local elections.

Make sure your voice is heard this Sunday through free and democratic vote. Above all, your participation in the elections will send a strong message to those who seek to intimidate you and the press, that they will not be able to silence you and that your elected officials will serve you and the interest of all citizens of the municipality.

Kosovo institutions will always be at your service. Your security and prospects are the priority of all Kosovo institutions.

Success in the April 23rd election..