We, the undersigned, note with growing concern the political developments in recent days in the Republic of Kosovo. We urgently warn against exploiting the extraordinary situation brought about by the coronavirus pandemic as a pretext for political machinations that damage the country and its reputation and divert it from the path of democracy and freedom.
We call on all political actors in Kosovo to remain calm and do nothing rash. The current situation brings with it a severe risk of escalation. The Government of Lëvizja Vetëvendosje (LVV) and Lidhja Demokratike e Kosovës (LDK) has a standard procedure designed for such a situation, lost the confidence of the majority in parliament. However, hasty moves to form a new government amid the COVID-19 pandemic may further undermine the country’s still-fragile institutions. Faith at home and abroad in the political instigators of this government reshuffle has been largely destroyed. Efforts to form a new government must be consistent with the Republic of Kosovo’s Constitution and be legitimised by the support of a democratically elected majority.
