In Kosovo’s parliament today, an opposition-led debate took center stage as representatives argued for the dismissal of the board members of Radio Television Kosovo (RTK). Although the debate was initiated by the opposition, members of the ruling Vetëvendosje party were notably absent, except for a brief introductory statement by one of its deputies.
Vetëvendosje MP and Media Committee Chair Valon Ramadani dismissed accusations of governmental influence over RTK, insisting that the network is not under Vetëvendosje’s control. In contrast, opposition members alleged that the government had effectively taken over the broadcaster, which they now refer to as „Radio Television Kurti.“
Ramadani addressed the opposition’s accusations, which center on claims of political meddling, particularly concerning RTK‘s alleged biased reporting.
“The concerns regarding media financing are legitimate, but PDK’s [Democratic Party of Kosovo] real issue is the favorable coverage they receive from private media aligned with their interests,” he stated. Ramadani argued that the ruling party has, in fact, liberated RTK from opposition influence. Following his remarks, Ramadani and his fellow party members exited the session, leaving the debate to the opposition.
“Radio Television Kurti”
The most striking statement came from Pal Lekaj, an MP with the Alliance for the Future of Kosovo (AAK), who alleged that Vetëvendosje has maintained an iron grip on RTK for years, claiming it has been turned into “Radio Television Kurti” rather than serving as an unbiased public broadcaster.
Lekaj accused RTK of operating under strict political direction from Vetëvendosje, declaring, “RTK has never been more politically controlled or weaker in its reporting. Its staff are under constant pressure, enduring threats and sexism, far removed from the professional standards expected of public media.”
The Democratic League of Kosovo (LDK) announced its decision to boycott RTK broadcasts due to what they describe as excessive politicization by Vetëvendosje. LDK faction leader Arben Gashi commented, “Kosovo’s public broadcaster has failed to provide a neutral service to the public. Because of the overt politicization and capture by Vetëvendosje, we will not participate in RTK programs.”
The parliamentary debate ended without a vote on dismissing RTK’s board due to a lack of quorum, as confirmed by Assembly President Glauk Konjufca.
Rising Criticism of RTK
Nearly a month ago, the selection process for the general director position was canceled once again. The now-former director of the station, Shkumbin Ahmetxhekaj, publicly acknowledged that Prime Minister Albin Kurti had indirectly urged him to resign (allegedly).
The RTK board recently appointed Hysen Hundozi as acting director-general. Previous acting director Zana Spahiu and news editor Jeton Musliu both resigned, citing internal pressure within the organization following allegations that RTK had promoted a politically driven news story initially published by Slobodna Bosna, which claimed that the Serbian president reportedly controls the media outlets Nacionale and Periskopi. These allegations, were met with a wave of public criticism and calls to support press freedom.
RTK has faced numerous criticisms from opposition parties in recent months, especially concerning coverage interruptions. In mid-October, RTK suspended a parliamentary broadcast focused on arrests within the Ministry of Infrastructure. Opposition MPs were infuriated, organizing a march to RTK headquarters and demanding leadership changes over the „unacceptable“ broadcast cutoff during a significant government scandal debate.
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