12 seconds ago 2009-12-04T03:35:03-08:00
PRISTINA (AFP) – The United States on Thursday voiced its "distress" over violence during campaigning for this weekend's landmark local elections in Kosovo.
The US embassy in Pristina "notes with distress reports of violent incidents related to campaign activity" in the western town Decani, a statement said.
The statement came a day after a group of protesters threw eggs and stones at a motorcade carrying Kosovo Prime Minister Hashim Thaci, who had been in the area for a rally organised by his Democratic party of Kosovo (DPK).
"Violence has no place in campaigns, elections or the democratic process," the US statement added, calling on "all political leaders, parties and activists to refrain from all violence and provocations."
Kosovo on Sunday holds its first local elections since it unilaterally declared indepedence from Serbia in February 2008.
More then 60 states have recognised Kosovo's independence, including the United States and most European Union members.
Serbia, backed by Russia, opposes the move and still considers the territory its province.
