Kosovo’s Premier Wins Election as Voters Target Corruption

Kurti rallies voters, even as he alienates Western allies
Premier may be forced to seek coalition without majority

Albin Kurti speaks to members of the media outside a polling station during the legislative elections in Pristina, Kosovo, on Feb. 9.Photographer: Armend Nimani/AFP/Getty Images

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By Gresa Kraja

February 9, 2025 at 4:21 PM EST

Updated on

February 9, 2025 at 5:57 PM EST

Kosovo’s prime minister secured a victory in a parliamentary election as voters backed his pledge to root out corruption and swiftly integrate Serb-majority regions, even as his approach has irked Western allies.

Albin Kurti’s Self-Determination Movement won 42% of the vote on Sunday, according to the Central Election Commission, citing a preliminary tally of nearly three-quarters of polling centers reporting. Failure to receive a parliamentary majority will force Kurti to seek coalition partners, complicating his bid to extend his five-year rule.