Serbia's PM Dissolves Government

Kostunica cites infighting over Kosovo, calls for new elections
By Wesley Oliver,  Newser Staff
Posted Mar 8, 2008 11:47 AM CST
Serbia's PM Dissolves Government
Protesters flash three fingers, the Serbian nationalist sign, during a mass protest rally against Kosovo's declaration of independence in Belgrade, Serbia, Thursday, Feb. 21, 2008. (AP Photo/Darko Vojinovic)   (Associated Press)

Serbian Prime Minister Vojislav Kostunica dissolved the government today, saying it had become paralyzed over disagreements on how to deal with Kosovo and EU membership. He proposed new elections for May. "We are lacking government unity,” said Kostunica, charging that his pro-Western coalition partners aren't being adamant enough about rejecting Kosovo's recent independence.

Kostunica has demanded European governments withdraw their recognition of Kosovo before Belgrade continues EU membership talks. But President Boris Tadic favors stronger ties with Europe and opposes bundling the two issues. “Such a government could not function any more,” Kostunica argued. One analyst endorsed his efforts: “This is a huge rift and it’s good the people will have a chance to decide,” he said. (More Boris Tadic stories.)

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