Kosovo elects Justina Pula president just after deadline
One Turn followed this story across 2 editions, from Pristina, Kosovo on October 6, 2026. Newest first.
Kosovo declared independence from Serbia in 2008, which Serbia does not recognise. Its president is elected by parliament, and failure to do so within the deadline triggers early elections.
Kosovo's parliament began voting on 6 October and completed the process minutes after the midnight constitutional deadline, declaring Justina Pula the next president. Lawmakers also rushed a change related to the war crimes court to avoid a snap election, according to Gulf News.
Why it matters: Electing a president averts a snap poll and eases a political deadlock in one of Europe's youngest states.
Kosovo's parliament elected Justina Pula as president, finishing the vote minutes after the midnight constitutional deadline. Acting president Albulena Haxhiu had exceeded the six-month limit on an acting presidency.
Why it matters: Electing a president avoided a constitutional crisis that could have forced a snap election.