Kosovo heads to a snap parliamentary election on Sunday to resolve a political stalemate that has blocked the formation of a government since February.

Prime Minister Albin Kurti’s Self-Determination party, which won the most votes in the February 9 election, failed to form a coalition, leaving the country without a government for months—the first such deadlock since Kosovo declared independence from Serbia in 2008.

Kurti’s party remains the frontrunner, but it is uncertain whether it can secure a majority in the 120-seat assembly. Another inconclusive result could prolong the political crisis, leaving the country without a budget for 2026 and heightening economic concerns for its two million residents.

Kosovo is also expected to elect a new president in March as President Vjosa Osmani’s term ends in early April. Failure to elect a president would trigger yet another snap election.

Serbia continues to refuse recognition of Kosovo’s independence, raising fears of renewed instability in the Balkans, particularly after Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine.

In the February vote, Self-Determination secured roughly 42% of the vote, while main rivals the Democratic League of Kosovo and the Democratic Party of Kosovo together won about 40%. Analysts say even a small shift in support could determine coalition options. Leart Hoxha, a political analyst, said Kurti might partner with minority parties if his vote share improves. Otherwise, the opposition could form a government or a new election may follow in months.

Opposition parties accuse Kurti of authoritarianism and straining ties with Kosovo’s U.S. and EU allies since taking office in 2021. Kurti has called on voters to give him another chance, promising a stable government with over 50% support.

The election campaign has focused on stability, security, and economic challenges. Former Kosovo National Bank governor Bedri Hamza said citizens complain about rising costs and low salaries.

Kurti, a former political prisoner under Serbian rule, has taken a firm stance in EU-mediated talks with Belgrade. He has pledged to strengthen Kosovo’s security and agreed to accept some deported migrants from the U.S. under strict anti-immigration measures.

Tensions with ethnic Serbs in northern Kosovo erupted in clashes in 2023, but recent local elections saw peaceful transfer of mayoral power. Kosovo remains one of Europe’s poorest countries and continues efforts to join the EU, contingent on normalizing relations with Serbia.