Skopje, 4 October 2024 (MIA) -- The DUI-led European Front coalition has declined to comment on media reports that Menduh Thaçi left the coalition.

DUI spokesman Arbr Ademi told MIA only that their parliamentary group was operational.

"The parliamentary group is functional and working in full force," Ademi said.

Blerim Bexheti from the European Front gave an almost identical answer at a press conference Friday.

"The European Front has the same number of lawmakers in Parliament," he said.

"If you have any other questions or dilemmas, you need to talk to Menduh Thaçi or Ali Ahmeti," Bexheti said.

In response to a reporter's question on why Thaçi was absent from events organized by the European Front, Bexheti said the absence of any leaders of the parties making up the coalition was not unusual.

"Other European Front party leaders have been absent from activities. Let me assure you this is normal. Everyone has their own obligations and protocol meetings and may be absent from gatherings," Bexheti said. 

DPA party representatives told MIA they would issue an official statement in the next few days.

Speaking to the press in Arachinovo, First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Environment and Physical Planning Izet Mexhiti said European Front parties did not form the coalition on the basis of shared ideology but to remain in politics.

Mexhiti said he did not know if there were talks with Thaçi to join the Worth It coalition.

"I am personally not holding any such negotiations," Mexhiti said. "As I already said the other month, they didn't come together ideologically or for some higher purpose but to survive on the political scene."

According to some media reports, DPA sources confirmed that Thaçi has left the European Front. mr/