Former Head of OSCE Verification Mission Proposes Faton Bislimi for President of Kosovo

The former head of the OSCE Verification Mission in Kosovo, retired Ambassador William G. Walker, has addressed a letter to the leaders of political parties represented in the Kosovo Assembly, proposing Faton "Tony" Bislimi as a candidate for President of Kosovo, writes Telegrafi.

The Telegraph has obtained Ambassador Walker's letter, in which the American diplomat expresses his concern about, as he calls it, the prolonged blockade of the constitutional process for electing a new president.

 
As Telegrafi learns, the letter has been sent to all leaders of political parties represented in the Kosovo Assembly, with the request that Bislim's name and qualifications be taken into consideration during discussions for the presidency.

The letter was confirmed to the Telegraph by people close to American Ambassador Wollker.

"As a friend of Kosovo, I am deeply concerned, as I am convinced you and the citizens of Kosovo are, about the protracted blockade of the constitutional process for the election of a new President," Walker's letter states.

"I have heard the names of several potential candidates. All of them deserve consideration, but, in my assessment, none of them fully meets the skills, experience, and personal profile required for the position of President. Therefore, allow me to propose a name." 

For more, read the full letter:

By: Ambassador (Retired) William G. Walker

Subject: Proposal for candidacy for President of Kosovo

As a friend of Kosovo, I am deeply concerned, as I am sure you and the citizens of Kosovo are, about the prolonged deadlock in the constitutional process to elect a new President. I do not believe that further elections would bring clarity or resolution to this situation, much less put Kosovo back on the path to effective governance.

In order for the institution of the Presidency to successfully exercise its role, Kosovo needs a person with special skills and strong commitment to advance the country towards its rightful position in the world.

 
I have heard the names of several potential candidates. All of them deserve consideration, but, in my opinion, none of them fully meets the skills, experience, and personal profile required for the position of President. Therefore, allow me to propose a name.

I have known Faton “Tony” Bislimi for many years. We have often discussed Kosovo politics, both domestically and the place of this young state in Europe and the world. I have no doubt about his independence of thought and his ability to clearly articulate and defend his positions on any issue.

In my opinion, among the names that could be considered, Fatoni possesses all the necessary skills, as well as the personal profile required to be a successful President.

Allow me to list some of the qualities that, in my opinion, are essential for the successful exercise of the office of President:

1. Getting to know the world beyond Kosovo

Fatoni has lived, traveled, and studied in various countries in Europe and North America. His international knowledge and experience are extraordinary.

2. Excellent academic background

Fatoni's studies in Kosovo, the United States of America, and Canada have been of the highest level. His skills as an educator and lecturer have also been widely proven.

 
3. Communication skills.

Fatoni is fluent in Albanian and English, and, as far as I know, also French.

4. Deep knowledge of the state formation process of Kosovo

Fatoni has an extraordinary knowledge and understanding of Kosovo's journey before, during and after the war of the 1990s, as well as the complex processes and personalities that have been part of this journey. He has also had personal contact with many of the actors involved.

5. Personality

Fatoni possesses all the necessary social skills. He knows how to be approachable and serious when the situation calls for it, but also to bring lightness and humor when necessary. Few people leave a conversation with Fatoni angry or dissatisfied, regardless of differences in arguments or views. This is exactly the type of personality required for a successful Presidency.

6. Consensus candidate

Kosovo is in dire need of a President who is perceived as representing the country as a whole, not a party, an individual, or a rigid political stance on any issue. Fatoni does not represent party interests. He represents his own convictions and commitment to a better Kosovo.

In a word, in my opinion, Fatoni possesses all the necessary qualities to be a successful President of Kosovo.

I only ask that his name and qualifications be taken into consideration during your discussions.

 
With respect and best wishes,

Amb. William G. Walker

Note: This letter has been sent to all leaders of political parties represented in the Kosovo Assembly, however, until the publication of the letter, LVV, PDK, LDK and AAK have not confirmed that the same has reached their address/Telegrafi