Clashes within LDK over presidential post, Adem Salihaj: Division has reached alarming proportions

Six LDK MPs—Avdullah Hoti, Hykmete Bajrami, Kujtim Shala, Armend Zemaj, Arben Gashi and Janina Ymeri—did not support the agreement with the Vetëvendosje Movement on the election of a consensus president, Bekim Sjediu. Through this stance, they opposed the decision of the LDK leadership.

Their refusal has deepened divisions within the party led by Lumir Abdixhiku and created uncertainty over the implementation of the agreement reached between the two political forces. The situation comes at a delicate time, when securing the votes and quorum needed to elect the President is at the center of political developments.

LDK leader Lumir Abdixhiku described the MPs’ decision as causing “irreparable damage to the entire process.” He warned that the lack of a solution could lead Kosovo toward early parliamentary elections.

Former LDK MP Adem Salihaj said that political divisions in Kosovo had now escalated to alarming levels.

According to him, Bekim Sejdiu would be an acceptable candidate for the post of President, but divisions within the LDK are preventing his election.

“Things in Kosovo have deteriorated significantly. When Murat Jashari was mentioned as a possible presidential figure, there were political parties—those from the wartime camp—that said they would not remain in the hall. So, it is no longer just Bekim Sejdiu; even a figure from the Jashari family is no longer someone who unites the political spectrum. Division in Kosovo has now reached alarming proportions. Bekim Sejdiu would be a good option. From what we see, he is an acceptable figure. In my opinion, any figure who is acceptable to two-thirds is fine.”

“Divisions within the LDK are making his election impossible, so the institutional crisis will continue indefinitely. Kosovo is going through difficult days, with serious consequences,” he told “Bota sot.”