The party representing the Serbian minority in the partially recognized country was barred from the elections because it "opposes the statehood of Kosovo."
CEC member Sami Kurteshi, who reviews political party applications, noted that members of the "Serbian List" never say, "Long live Kosovo," but instead repeat the slogan, "Long live Serbia."
The election commission members also pointed out that the election program of the "Serbian List" does not mention "the Republic of Kosovo" even once, instead using the term "Kosovo and Metohija."
The Serbian party in Kosovo may appeal the CEC's decision.
Parliamentary elections in the country are scheduled for February 9, 2025.
Radio Slobodna Evropa reports that the "Serbian List" has support from Belgrade, so the CEC's refusal may "further escalate the tense relations" between Kosovo and Serbia "despite international efforts to normalize them."
On December 23, Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić stated that Prime Minister of Kosovo Albin Kurti is trying to "eliminate the sole opponent" in the elections.
Journalists noted that only the CEC head Kreshnik Radoniqi voted for the certification of the "Serbian List."