UNMIK/PR/582
PRISTINA – Today’s meeting of the Kosovo Transitional Council (KTC) was filled with a lively exchange of ideas and opinions on the Constitutional Framework. Chaired by PDSRSG Gary Matthews, the meeting gave members of Kosovo’s communities a chance to express their opinions, agreements and disagreements with the document.
Mr. Matthews started the meeting by saying, “This is clearly the most important legislative act since UNMIK was established two years ago. Keep in mind that self-government is about your future and the future of your children.”
Matthews also took a few moments in his opening statement to dispel some of the falsehoods regarding the document. “The SRSG stated very firmly that it is not correct that Belgrade was asked to approve the document. Categorically they did not,” said Matthews.
Responding to the criticism that the document does not allow for the final settlement of Kosovo, PDSRSG Matthews reminded the members that, “1244 is our beacon, our guiding light, our structure, our framework. It is essential.” He said that 1244 guides the mission in Kosovo and the final solution “is in no way the aim of the Constitutional Framework.”
Some members stated their opinion that the document was just a means to the elections. Matthews refuted their assertions stating, “This document is not just about the elections. It is about your self-government. It is the future. The importance goes way beyond November 17th.”
Matthews also commented on the inclusion of the will of the people. “The will of the people is evident and has been manifested in this document. The Constitutional Framework is the embodiment of the will of the people.”
AAK Chairman Ramush Haradinaj expressed his support for the document and asked the people of Kosovo to support the process as well. “This is not a regression. This is a step forward. We ask the minorities to take part in these elections, especially the Serbs, because Kosovo belongs to everyone who lives here,” said Haradinaj.
LDK Representative Kole Berisha said, “The document is acceptable for the LDK. If we compare the 1st draft with the today’s, there is a big difference and a big achievement.”
Other issues raised by the members were compromises on the name of the document, security and interests of the minority communities, the degree of consultation with the parties and KTC, the transfer of responsibilities from UNMIK to the Kosovars, the lack of a time frame and the SRSG’s future role.
DSRSG Tom Koenigs told the members that the OSCE is preparing for the upcoming elections and urged the members to make sure their constituents register to vote. “All those who haven’t registered to vote yet should go and register so they can participate,” said Koenigs. “Don’t wait until right before the elections.”