UNMIK/PR/1690
PRISTINA – Principal Deputy Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General in Kosovo (PDSRSG) Steven Schook today signed Executive Decision No. 2007/44, which authorizes the Central Elections Commission (CEC) to start technical preparations now to hold elections in Kosovo.
“As Special Representative Joachim Rücker has said, it is UNMIK’s position that the democratic process in Kosovo should move forward,” said the PDSRSG. “The legislative framework for the holding of elections is being finalized and will be promulgated before the end of this month.”
“However, it is important that the elections do not interfere with the resolution of final status. We will be monitoring the negotiation process very closely over the coming months,” Schook said.
Pending the promulgation of all relevant legislation, the Executive Decision signed today authorizes the Central Elections Commission to initiate technical preparations and to:
- Conduct the certification of candidates and political entities for elections of Municipal Assembly Members, Mayors, and Kosovo Assembly Members;
- Establish relevant voter lists and make preparations for voting outside of Kosovo;
- Regulate expenditures and media-related matters; and,
- Provide accreditation to electoral observers.
The CEC’s decisions are subject to appeal to the Election Complaints and Appeals Commission.
By the first week of September, Special Representative of the Secretary-General Joachim Rücker will announce the elections date. This will be without prejudice to his authority to make any changes or adjustments if necessary in the light of political developments relating to the status process.
