During today’s visit to the promenade in North Mitrovica, Kosovo’s Minister of Local Government, Elbert Krasniqi, and Mayor of North Mitrovica, Erden Atić, were greeted with boos and chants of “Propaganda!” from activists of the Serbian Democracy (Srpska Demokratija) party, who claim that they are carrying out “anti-Serb” policy. The officials were in attendance for the ceremonial opening of the Eurosig insurance office, a Kosovo-based company expanding into the predominantly Serbian area of North Mitrovica.
In response to the protests, Minister Krasniqi briefly addressed the press, emphasizing Kosovo’s democratic values.
“We live in a democratic republic, and everyone has the right to express dissatisfaction,” he said, adding that as long as the protests remain peaceful, they are an acceptable exercise of civil rights.
Krasniqi, accompanied by police and security personnel, continued his walk through the area, eventually making his way toward the main bridge, still accompanied by whistles and jeers from the protesters.
Via FB, Krasnići later expressed his satisfaction with the opening of the new Eurosig insurance branch in North Mitrovica, highlighting that this, along with other new businesses in the area, provides essential services and creates job opportunities. He emphasized that Eurosig’s operations represent progress in the region’s economic development by strengthening the local economy and improving the quality of life. Krasnići also pointed out that the opening of new businesses demonstrates a commitment to developing the necessary infrastructure and economic capacities for a better future for citizens.
This latest demonstration underscores the tensions that have been simmering in North Mitrovica as more businesses owned by Kosovo Albanians begin to establish a presence north of the Ibar River.
For nearly two decades, these premises were operated predominantly by local Serbs, however, the Kosovo Privatization Agency (KPA) recently started leasing and selling these properties to Albanian entrepreneurs.
Among the new establishments is the popular café Misini, which has attracted a significant number of visitors from south of the Ibar.
Serbian Democracy’s Vice President Stefan Veljković emphasized the group’s commitment to protest every visit from Kosovo officials, whom he accuses of promoting discriminatory policies.
“We have repeatedly warned that any Kosovo minister or high-ranking Pristina official who enforces anti-Serbian, discriminatory policies against the Serbian community in Kosovo will be met with resistance. This is our city, and we will continue to protest,” Veljković said.
Adding a political twist to the day’s events, Serbian Democracy displayed banners supporting Donald Trump, congratulating him on his recent electoral win.
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