Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Kosovo Detains 109 Over Alleged Ballot Manipulation as Nationwide Recount Proceeds

Prosecutors say the scheme shifted preferences among candidates rather than between parties.

Voters fill their ballots behind voting booths for early parliamentary election in Kosovo's capital Pristina, Sunday Dec. 28, 2025. (AP Photo/Visar Kryeziu)
People take a photo with Kosovo's acting prime minister and leader of VeteVendosje political party Albin Kurti after voting in Kosovo's capital Pristina, Sunday Dec. 28, 2025. (AP Photo/Visar Kryeziu)
A person votes during a snap parliamentary election, nearly a year after a political deadlock that prevented the formation of a new government, in Pristina, Kosovo, December 28, 2025. REUTERS/Florion Goga

Overview

  • The election commission reports more than half the ballots have been recounted, with one seat so far moving to another candidate from the same party.
  • Prizren prosecutors allege manipulation of 68,017 ballots and describe pressure, threats and bribery involving party-appointed election commissioners.
  • Officials say the recount is unlikely to alter the overall result, with Vetevendosje having won about 51% of votes on a turnout of roughly 44%.
  • Prosecutors say suspects largely came from the ranks of commissioners nominated by parties, and they report cooperative witnesses detailing how the scheme worked.
  • Investigators warn the recount and prosecutions could slow the formation of a new parliament and government, with Kosovo facing a budget gap and an early March deadline to elect a president.