Kosovo parliament confirms Kurti government, Turkish minority leader named deputy PM

2026-02-12 - 03:25

Kosovo's 120-seat parliament voted Wednesday to confirm a new government led by Vetevendosje leader Albin Kurti, bringing an end to over a year of political deadlock. The Kurti cabinet received 66 votes in favor, with 49 opposed and five abstentions, following December's early general election which saw his party secure 57 seats. Turkish Community Representation at Deputy Level Fikrim Damka, president of the Kosovo Democratic Turkish Party (KDTP), has been appointed Third Deputy Prime Minister responsible for Minority Affairs and Cooperation. The KDTP secured two of the 20 parliamentary seats constitutionally reserved for non-majority communities in the December 28 election. Damka's inclusion at the highest executive level underscores the institutional recognition of Kosovo's Turkish minority within the country's governance framework. Government Priorities and Policy Direction In his inaugural parliamentary address, Kurti outlined a four-year agenda including €1 billion investment in defense capabilities, significant development of renewable energy and water resources, and revitalization of Kosovo's manufacturing sector. The prime minister also committed to supporting women's employment and linking minimum wage increases to economic growth. Regarding relations with Belgrade, Kurti emphasized normalization through "constructive and creative dialogue." Cabinet Composition and Parliamentary Context The new cabinet features Glauk Konjufca as First Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, with Donika Gervalla-Schwarz assuming Second Deputy Prime Minister and Justice Minister portfolios. Following December's elections, the Serbian List holds nine community seats, while smaller minority parties including the Turkish KDTP, Bosnian VAKAT Coalition, Egyptian, Ashkali, Roma, and Gorani representatives comprise the remaining reserved seats. The new ministers have since taken their oaths of office.