Serbs, Kosovo police clash, 20 hurt

"Earlier this month, Nikolić and heads of four Pomoravlje municipalities decided that the Serbs in this area of Kosovo and Metohija would not pay the bills or sign individual contracts with KEK."

And KEK decided to cut off your power. Brilliant move!

They are trying to provoke the civilian Albanian population but it will not work: KPS, EULEX, KFOR and Kosovo Security Forces will deal with this.

Read USA's Munter interview: Tadic and Jeremic promised US that they will rein in on the criminals and self proclaimed leaders in Serbian enclaves and they must keep their promise or else.

Between Tadic needing EU funds, IMF funds, visas this is the ideal time to finally restore law and order in every corner of The Republic of Kosova. 27 EU ambassadors came to Kosova last week, met with EULEX and Kosova leaders giving EULEX 110% support. If KPS, KFOR are not enough to restore order, they can easily "deputize" some Albanian civilians.

Police brutality! That's "Kosova"'s version of paradise on earth!

"The ministry for Kosovo and Metohija is working to solve the problem, that we have inherited. We are in constant contact with the international community, but violence, regardless of where it comes from, will certainly not bring electricity to the Serbs," said he, and reminded that "this problem has not been solved by anyone during the past ten years".

Are we witnessing some 'sence' from our friend Goran. Its a good sign to see in regards to previous retorics from Mr Goran that we are used to these few years.

Calming the situation instead of demands to the UN or EU or Kfor, hope not to be to optimistic, but this message comming from our friend Goran seems a little more sencible.

Way to go Mr Minister.

P.S. Glad to see the members of KPS are exercising in a proffesional conduct, peacefull demonstrations should be allowed as we want Kosova to be free, as long they are not interfeering with our everyday lives.

"The protests concern three villages near Kosovska Kamenica that have been left in the dark"

They have been left in dark by Serbian government telling them don't pay electricity.

Police brutality! That's "Kosova"'s version of paradise on earth!
(lowe, 11 May 2009 01:48)

Protesters blocked the main road preventing freedom of movemant then hurled stones, bottles and otrher object at police and police should nor react, right Iowe.

Anuway this is a problem that cannot be solved. It is very easy, just pay the bills that ore overdue.

im sure KPS know how to deal with these criminals

Agim are you for real!! Serbs trying to provoke Albanians by throwing stones ? The albanians are the experts of provocation the Serbs should be less honest and try albanian tactics. A few thousand Serbs who are only asking to choose their electrical supplier, we in the UK can change our suppliers with a phone call why not the Serbs? No, this is of course political by trying to subject and enslave the Serbs to be dependent on the Kosovo albanian bandits who are in turn controlled by USA/EU. So much for self determination for minority groups in the wonderful paradise of 'kosovar'!!!

'we in the UK can change our suppliers with a phone call why not the Serbs?
(Diana, 11 May 2009 09:27) '

You've got it all wrong my dear. In UK you can only choose between the suppliers offered to you, you can't just pick and choose any supplier in the world.

#2 Dulo, I fully agree with you. There is some news about US request made to Serbia to control “their irresponsible self-proclaimed leaders” in Kosovo. Part of Ambassador’s Munther interview and request: “I’m talking about people living in Mitrovica and your Government knows who they are. These people who inflame violence are a danger to their own security and the security of others. This is not the way to solve problems”.
So, Mr. Goran is kind of doing what he’s being told.

# 9, Diana, I don’t know if you truly can change the company by a phone call, but even if that’s true, that’s because you would chose another company operating within UK.
I’m sure companies in UK would have cut you off within six months, if you didn’t pay the bills, so to me the request made by these villagers is purely political.

Anyway, I’ve said it earlier in some other posts related to this problem that the offer made by KEK is really e very generous one. All they are asking is to pay a lump sum of 26 € per 2 months, and then continue with regular bills thus forgetting the accumulated debt. This is way too generous.

"He said that they refuse to pay their bills to the Kosovo company in charge of electricity distribution, KEK, and instead want Belgrade to solve the problem and introduce a second provider – the public power enterprise, EPS. "

Thou shall payeth your electricity bills, and thou shall haveth electricity. Those who don't payeth stayeth in the cold.

Anyone who throws stones and blocks roads should be thrown in prison. Try doing that in NY, see how quickly you end up in jail.

I think having a second power company in the province is a great idea and would certainly solve many issues. I wouldn't like to be paying companies that have links to criminal elements.

In the mean time Serbians should organise civil disobedience demonstrations such as "drive slow" to block the roads lawfully.

I as Albanian have difficulties to understand why KEK is being so cruel against the poor in Kosovo, no matter of nationality.

I would have sympathised with th Serbs if they said they are not paying because they don't have money. The reasons they are stating make me reconsider my opinion on this and it seems like they are not paying because they don't want to do so. This is not acceptable and is a threat to the society because if every one does so the energy production and distribution will collapse.

The long term solution will be to erase all the old debt for private housholds in Kosovo and start from zero but this will be unfair for those that did pay. Yes many in Kosovo do not have money to pay but many other have but don't pay.

Thats right Agim...you can become the new deputy.

Kate:
"It is illegal to just cut people off without taking them through the correct legal procedure."

You're absolutely right. But it's also illegal to throw rocks at the Police.

Let's not get into correct procedures, Serbia holds a really polished Human Right record, 3-4 wars in a decade, that's all.

Let's be reasonable for once!
Pay the bills everyone.

PZ and others: Just for the record, I'm not sure how it works elsewhere in Europe, but if somebody doesn't pay their power bill in the UK a credit control company has to apply for a disconnection order from a magistrate's court. That's if bills are unpaid for six months.

It is illegal to just cut people off without taking them through the correct legal procedure. Energy companies have actually paid compensation to households for wrongly disconnecting them without following due process.

The situation with these Serbian communities in Kosovo just can't be compared to eg. a householder refusing to pay. This is an international issue, and the obvious thing to do would be to set up a system whereby they were happy to pay to a third party.

Then comes the issue of whether they can actually pay. You would have thought with all of the billions flooded into Kosovo people who genuinely can't pay for power can get some sort of assistance. That goes for all communities.

That is how it should be. Not this bullish cut off whole community tactic. That is so far removed from the behaviour of a developed 'state'.

The lack of empathy from people here is staggering. We are talking about schools, the young, the elderly, clinics... everything being cut off in a whole community.

Kosovsko Pomoravlje must be connected with EPS power system!!

Anuway this is a problem that cannot be solved. It is very easy, just pay the bills that ore overdue.
(Kosova-USA, 11 May 2009 10:11)
No problem - K-Serbs can pay bills - but rather to EPS - not KEK!!

Kate, these bills haven’t been paid for 10 years not six month or 1 year. I understand that Serbs are in a more vulnerable position than Albanians, but again, if they want to solve this problem they should address it with the Kosovo Government. It is simply impossible to fulfill this request: “He said that they refuse to pay their bills to the Kosovo Company in charge of electricity distribution, KEK, and instead want Belgrade to solve the problem and introduce a second provider – the public power enterprise, EPS”. This paragraph tells it all. They simply don’t want to pay to KEK, which is the only company to provide this service.
I pay electricity every month and yet I experience power cuts almost everyday. If I had the possibility to choose between KEK and another electrical company operating in Kosovo, I would have chosen the one that provides electricity 24/7, but unfortunately KEK is the only ‘solution’.

I agree with you that cutting off electricity collectively is really not a solution, but if the whole village didn’t pay it then there is nothing to talk more about it, but if there is a single family paying in the entire village or city then it should receive the service.

Its funny how these serbs are refusing to sign a contract with KEK and want a different electricity provider, only after KEK has finally decided to do something about their non-payment.

For 10 years they never complained about KEK - Why? Free electricity!

Now that they are being asked to pay -all of the sudden KEK is not good enough.

If they were so against KEK and Kosovan institutions - why did they not stop using electicity 10 years ago and protest about wanting a different provider?

The truth I most K. Serbs did not want a electricity provider from Serbiam because they knew they would have to pay for it!

It amazes me to read comments such as 'they should just pay their bills'.

(a) that is not what this is about, as everyone knows;

(b) those in comfortable places where you can get work and proper pay (or are living on benefits) are not in a position to judge anyone in this extremely poor province, especially the marginalised Serbian and other communities.

In any developed European country there is a competitive market place, as Diana pointed out, where people are free to decide which provider to use. There is also, incidentally, help available for those who can genuinely not pay their bills for basic amenities.
There is a vast difference in approaches to social issues in the US and Europe, thank goodness.

Could there ever be a second supplier of electricity in Kosovo? Because we can see from the recent 'missing 50 million' scandal exactly how the province is being run.

Cutting off supplies to entire villages is actually a breach of human rights under the Helsinki Act and Geneva Convention. This rag tag excuse of a 'modern state' looks even more ridiculous with this barbaric and bullish approach.

As for EULEX and the other internationals - get your act together and remember that you are working under the UN; ie. recognise UN Res 1244.

I would agree with the earlier comment that the Serbian govt should be doing a more to help and support these people. It is an absolute crime that basic life amenities are being withheld for political gain.

kate, you are a true authoritarian on all aspects of international law. It is just a shame you never read the documents you quote from.
There is a big difference in not being able to pay a bill and "refusing" to pay a bill.
Just because they are Serbian does not mean they should get a free ride. I personally know of Albanian families that are without electricity because they "cannot" pay.
lowe the police brutality comment is so far off the mark, it is unbelievable someone made it.

Ron, you can say what ever you want, you can say that Kosovo does not really exist; it’s a dream, a fairy tale or whatever but that is far from reality. You think that by repeating over and over “Kosovo is a province” or “Kosovo is Serbia” will indeed be that way.

UNMIK is no more! How can you go to something inexistent in terms of decision-making and lack of power to solve a problem like this one in question?

Ok. I’ll be nice and fulfill you this “dream” and say that UNMIK is still in power, but I’ll have to ask you a simple question. UNMIK was in full control from 1999 to 2008 operating under 1244, right? How many months have Serbs paid their electricity during this period???!!! Does it say anywhere in Res. 1244 that Serbs are exempted from paying electricity?? And I say all should obey the law.

“It is very important Serbs (but also Albanians) stick on this: don't make the illegal government legal!”

You are very wrong here. The current Government was elected while UNMIK was still in power, and it was the SRSG himself who legitimized it. Kosovo Government and its institutions where build and supported by all international organizations: UNMIK, OSCE, KFOR, etc.

Serbian diaspora still look at Kosovo and Metohija as Serbia's southern province so why doesn't the Serbian government do its job and sort out this electricity problem for its citizens in the south. If they can't protect their citizens and give them basic power facility then have new elections and bring in politicians who can look after Serbian citizens.

Road blocks, why??? Primitive way to protest isn't it?

I'm sure Tadic is going to find a way to beam electricity into Serb homes from Belgrade. Forget it - good or bad every home is Kosova needs to deal with KEK.

People in Kosovo who do not pay are warned that electricity will be cut off. After the warning if nothing has changed their supply is cut off.It is important to mention that every house hold in these villages owes thousands of Euros to KEK not hundreds. No EU company tolerates such a thing, so please try something else it might sell

Some people have to understand that not the same rules apply in Germany, UK, USA when it comes to these matters. Every country deals in it own way no matter the ethnic bacground and no International convention protects the debtors thats why Serbian gov. says nothing and makes no political issue out of it sicen there is no case. If you choose to take them all to court than they will all have criminal record, making them criminals, which is worst.

Due to circumstances there is no possibility of having another supplier and this is all thanks to Serbia who is making lots of money from power transmition in the region, however if Serbia decides to lower or scrap the transmition fee than there might be a possibility.

Social welfare is available for those that apply and qualify and it is very low, for all citizens of Kosova. By the way, comparing Kosova with EU and USA is really a comlpliment but that is not how you do the comparison in order to get to results, logic.

Schools in those areas work only in one shift sicen thay have very low number of pupils, they have no computers like most of shcool in Kosova, so power does no play such a big role.
There are no hospitals in those ares while the clinics are supplied with power generators for sometime now so they can produce their own energy when needed. Power cuts are part of everyday life of every Kosovar, due to large demenand and low supply of power from KEK, this is how life is in Kosova for all not only for Serbs.

To conclude this, it is left to K-Serbs to find a solution for themselves, which is fair.

the WEST led by the US started another palestine-israel type of conflict in the balkans. anything enforced will bring lasting conflct instead of peace. EAST Tinor breakaway from INdonesia is a good example of creation of new state. There will always be KATASTROPA in Kosovo.

Come on Tunxh you have gone too far, I would recommend them (protesters) to “protest” in that way in Belgrade, and they will most probably find out the generosity of the Serbian regime.
By the way; every one who was in position to watch the latest news, he could have easily noticed slogans “Kosovo je Serbia” and insulting of policemen with the dirtiest language. In other words the power was just an excuse to continuing with the destructivity of those who are paid to do so.

If they want nothing to do with KEK why do the want FREE electricity from KEK? Are these trouble makers for real??? Le them get electricity from Serbia. In the mean time cut them off. In my area and everywhere in the world a cut-off would be the most natural thing.

Why you Serbs never see the reality how it is, instead you always claim as you are victim???
In case of Serb protests I would like to add something:

i). How come to buy a product where ever in the world without paying it?

ii). Why it is needed to spend so much time to understand the whole reality?

iii). Does Belgrade has any deadline when to stop these really bothering situations?

iv). I'm very confident that foreign investors won't invest either in Kosova nor in Republic of Serbia!!!

v). Sooner or later no other option Kosova and Rep. of Serbia will live in same union and that is EU.

Don't invest in wrong ideas!

Don't waste your and our monies!

Don't let the future on the hand's of criminal groups in both sides!

Let's the freedom flows free in Balkan...

Dulo,

It is Kosovo, not Kosova.

And Kosovo is just a Serbian province. As long as Albanians do not accept that Kosovo will not be quiet.

Only a mutual agreed solution is viable!

PZ,

Nope. Everyone should go to UNMIK. There is no Kosovo government as Kosovo is a province not a state.

It is very important Serbs (but also Albanians) stick on this: don't make the illegal government legal!

1244 is still valid. And all should obey international law!

As I understand it KEK is not good enough is it?
Maybe only Albania has more power cuts in Europe than Kosovo. And I would add that the answer to this problem isn't to cut people off, the answer is for KEK to do their jobs properly and (increase) secure a stable supply.

On this issue I of course advocate a compromise but personally speaking I thank the lord I'm living in a town where there are no power cuts or that I am punished with being cut off because others don't pay bills.

The only way Serbs are going to be protected is with Serb army in enclaves and north Mitrovica. Because there is pure aggression against them from albanians and american eulex.

"Protesters blocked the main road preventing freedom of movement then hurled stones, bottles and other object at police and police should nor react, right Iowe."
Kosova-USA

"Anyone who throws stones and blocks roads should be thrown in prison. Try doing that in NY, see how quickly you end up in jail."
(Tunxh, 11 May 2009 14:01)

"You're absolutely right. But it's also illegal to throw rocks at the Police."
(Bes, 11 May 2009 15:14)

Ironic. Of course, these sentiments did not apply when the KAlbanians were the ones throwing the rocks. You have turned into what you purportedly despised most. If KAlbanians did in fact suffer as much as they claim, then why is it that they do not understand those who now are suffering? How is it that on February 16, 2008, KAlbanians touted self-determination and human rights, but a day later decided to ignore them?

The Serbian government doesn't understand the West, that's obvious. When the Russians blockaded West Berlin, the Germans and the Allies supported the population - they made sure there were jobs, power, reconstruction... The West Berliners were viewed as heroes, and worthy of support.

The Serbian government has done just the opposite, emphasizing the pitiable aspects of the people in the villages. If anybody felt sorry for them at the beginning, they've stopped by now. And all they've done, apparently, is loyally follow their government's orders. It's time for a rethink on what's best for Serbia as a whole and for the Serbians living 'down there.'

Ron, Please read 1244 before commenting on it again. The main core of 1244 says the goal of international civilian presence is to help establish an autonomous democratic govt and then transfer authority to them.
That part does not matter whether you wish to call it a province or a an independent country. It has its own democratic govt elected without any control from Serbia hence the word "autonomous".
Your constant input that you are only a supporter of international law is totally baseless unless you actually read the documents.

In Belgrade late on Sunday, Minister for Kosovo Goran Bogdanović called on the protesters in the three Serb villages to calm the situation, avoid conflicts with KPS members, and solve the problem peacefully.

GET REAL MR. GORAN! Belgrade's comments make me more and more sick day after day. Kosovo Serbs are the true heroes by standing and fighting for what they believe in. Everyone knows they have nobody then themselves.

A battle of 100,000 versus 2 million is not easy. Thanks Belgrade again for your strong supprt!

As I understand it KEK is not good enough is it?
Maybe only Albania has more power cuts in Europe than Kosovo. And I would add that the answer to this problem isn't to cut people off, the answer is for KEK to do their jobs properly and (increase) secure a stable supply.

Let me just inform you that Slovenes and Albanian goverment are investing in Albania E145 000 000 euro on 5 hydro plants in Albania that will produce 350 billion of KW per year. Let me just put it to you in prospective -> Albania and Kosova at the moment spend 7 billion KW per year. And thats just 1 river wich flows from the mountains. As far the electricity concerns I am pretty sure the whole of balkans will be our customer. Who knows perhaps some will be exported to Russia even.

"Why you Serbs never see the reality how it is, instead you always claim as you are victim???"

That's because they are.
Let's the freedom flows free in Balkan...
(Master-ks, 11 May 2009 14:58)

Right on. Leave the Serbs alone and let them live in their free country, Serbia. Kosovo is a part of that country but they are not free there because your "government" is holding them hostage.
Oh,I get it. You mean your freedom to steal their land and make them second class citizens.

Dulo this isn't a matter of pride, its a question of having a constant, stable supply of electriciy. God knows in this age this is something that should happen in Europe (and beyond).
I know about that project you mentioned, but are you saying that the cuts will cease after this is up and running?
I'm not an expert but my bet is that its not just a supply problem but of capacity / quality of the system.

I hope this problem can be solved soon.

"He said that they refuse to pay their bills to the Kosovo company in charge of electricity distribution, KEK, and instead want Belgrade to solve the problem and introduce a second provider – the public power enterprise, EPS."

Here we are! Enough is enough! Everyone is equal towards Kosova's law and constitution.

"Let me just inform you that Slovenes and Albanian goverment are investing in Albania E145 000 000 euro on 5 hydro plants in Albania that will produce 350 billion of KW per year. Let me just put it to you in prospective -> Albania and Kosova at the moment spend 7 billion KW per year. And thats just 1 river wich flows from the mountains. As far the electricity concerns I am pretty sure the whole of balkans will be our customer. Who knows perhaps some will be exported to Russia even"
(Dulo, 11 May 2009 22:08)"

I think you have your figures all mixed up there. You wouldn't create that incredible hydro generating capacity for 145,000,000 euro. For example, I have knowledge of a hydro scheme in Europe. It cost circa 200,000,000 euro and has the capacity to power some 250,000 homes.

For 145,000,000 euro you can build a plant that can generate generate 50 times your requirements? That's absurd. But if you can, you will dominate europe with electricity at a tiny fraction of the price now. Russia, UK, Norway and the other oil and gas producers in europe best be worried! To put your figures in perspective these five small hydro schemes can generate enough to just about power all of the United Kingdom yet we are spending billions upon billions!

Of course, the Slovenians will own and operate these schemes for 35 years. Guess what? The typical plant and equipment life in hydro schemes is about 40 years. You'll need to invest some serious sums after that.

Good luck.

I know about that project you mentioned, but are you saying that the cuts will cease after this is up and running?

I hope Bganon it will work, even if its balkans..

"Earlier this month, Nikolić and heads of four Pomoravlje municipalities decided that the Serbs in this area of Kosovo and Metohija would not pay the bills or sign individual contracts with KEK."

And KEK decided to cut off your power. Brilliant move!

They are trying to provoke the civilian Albanian population but it will not work: KPS, EULEX, KFOR and Kosovo Security Forces will deal with this.

Read USA's Munter interview: Tadic and Jeremic promised US that they will rein in on the criminals and self proclaimed leaders in Serbian enclaves and they must keep their promise or else.

Between Tadic needing EU funds, IMF funds, visas this is the ideal time to finally restore law and order in every corner of The Republic of Kosova. 27 EU ambassadors came to Kosova last week, met with EULEX and Kosova leaders giving EULEX 110% support. If KPS, KFOR are not enough to restore order, they can easily "deputize" some Albanian civilians.

Police brutality! That's "Kosova"'s version of paradise on earth!

Serbian diaspora still look at Kosovo and Metohija as Serbia's southern province so why doesn't the Serbian government do its job and sort out this electricity problem for its citizens in the south. If they can't protect their citizens and give them basic power facility then have new elections and bring in politicians who can look after Serbian citizens.

"The ministry for Kosovo and Metohija is working to solve the problem, that we have inherited. We are in constant contact with the international community, but violence, regardless of where it comes from, will certainly not bring electricity to the Serbs," said he, and reminded that "this problem has not been solved by anyone during the past ten years".

Are we witnessing some 'sence' from our friend Goran. Its a good sign to see in regards to previous retorics from Mr Goran that we are used to these few years.

Calming the situation instead of demands to the UN or EU or Kfor, hope not to be to optimistic, but this message comming from our friend Goran seems a little more sencible.

Way to go Mr Minister.

P.S. Glad to see the members of KPS are exercising in a proffesional conduct, peacefull demonstrations should be allowed as we want Kosova to be free, as long they are not interfeering with our everyday lives.

Agim are you for real!! Serbs trying to provoke Albanians by throwing stones ? The albanians are the experts of provocation the Serbs should be less honest and try albanian tactics. A few thousand Serbs who are only asking to choose their electrical supplier, we in the UK can change our suppliers with a phone call why not the Serbs? No, this is of course political by trying to subject and enslave the Serbs to be dependent on the Kosovo albanian bandits who are in turn controlled by USA/EU. So much for self determination for minority groups in the wonderful paradise of 'kosovar'!!!

It amazes me to read comments such as 'they should just pay their bills'.

(a) that is not what this is about, as everyone knows;

(b) those in comfortable places where you can get work and proper pay (or are living on benefits) are not in a position to judge anyone in this extremely poor province, especially the marginalised Serbian and other communities.

In any developed European country there is a competitive market place, as Diana pointed out, where people are free to decide which provider to use. There is also, incidentally, help available for those who can genuinely not pay their bills for basic amenities.
There is a vast difference in approaches to social issues in the US and Europe, thank goodness.

Could there ever be a second supplier of electricity in Kosovo? Because we can see from the recent 'missing 50 million' scandal exactly how the province is being run.

Cutting off supplies to entire villages is actually a breach of human rights under the Helsinki Act and Geneva Convention. This rag tag excuse of a 'modern state' looks even more ridiculous with this barbaric and bullish approach.

As for EULEX and the other internationals - get your act together and remember that you are working under the UN; ie. recognise UN Res 1244.

I would agree with the earlier comment that the Serbian govt should be doing a more to help and support these people. It is an absolute crime that basic life amenities are being withheld for political gain.

im sure KPS know how to deal with these criminals

Kosovsko Pomoravlje must be connected with EPS power system!!

Anuway this is a problem that cannot be solved. It is very easy, just pay the bills that ore overdue.
(Kosova-USA, 11 May 2009 10:11)
No problem - K-Serbs can pay bills - but rather to EPS - not KEK!!

Dulo,

It is Kosovo, not Kosova.

And Kosovo is just a Serbian province. As long as Albanians do not accept that Kosovo will not be quiet.

Only a mutual agreed solution is viable!

PZ,

Nope. Everyone should go to UNMIK. There is no Kosovo government as Kosovo is a province not a state.

It is very important Serbs (but also Albanians) stick on this: don't make the illegal government legal!

1244 is still valid. And all should obey international law!

Police brutality! That's "Kosova"'s version of paradise on earth!
(lowe, 11 May 2009 01:48)

Protesters blocked the main road preventing freedom of movemant then hurled stones, bottles and otrher object at police and police should nor react, right Iowe.

Anuway this is a problem that cannot be solved. It is very easy, just pay the bills that ore overdue.

The only way Serbs are going to be protected is with Serb army in enclaves and north Mitrovica. Because there is pure aggression against them from albanians and american eulex.

Thats right Agim...you can become the new deputy.

I think having a second power company in the province is a great idea and would certainly solve many issues. I wouldn't like to be paying companies that have links to criminal elements.

In the mean time Serbians should organise civil disobedience demonstrations such as "drive slow" to block the roads lawfully.

the WEST led by the US started another palestine-israel type of conflict in the balkans. anything enforced will bring lasting conflct instead of peace. EAST Tinor breakaway from INdonesia is a good example of creation of new state. There will always be KATASTROPA in Kosovo.

PZ and others: Just for the record, I'm not sure how it works elsewhere in Europe, but if somebody doesn't pay their power bill in the UK a credit control company has to apply for a disconnection order from a magistrate's court. That's if bills are unpaid for six months.

It is illegal to just cut people off without taking them through the correct legal procedure. Energy companies have actually paid compensation to households for wrongly disconnecting them without following due process.

The situation with these Serbian communities in Kosovo just can't be compared to eg. a householder refusing to pay. This is an international issue, and the obvious thing to do would be to set up a system whereby they were happy to pay to a third party.

Then comes the issue of whether they can actually pay. You would have thought with all of the billions flooded into Kosovo people who genuinely can't pay for power can get some sort of assistance. That goes for all communities.

That is how it should be. Not this bullish cut off whole community tactic. That is so far removed from the behaviour of a developed 'state'.

The lack of empathy from people here is staggering. We are talking about schools, the young, the elderly, clinics... everything being cut off in a whole community.

"The protests concern three villages near Kosovska Kamenica that have been left in the dark"

They have been left in dark by Serbian government telling them don't pay electricity.

Road blocks, why??? Primitive way to protest isn't it?

I'm sure Tadic is going to find a way to beam electricity into Serb homes from Belgrade. Forget it - good or bad every home is Kosova needs to deal with KEK.

Why you Serbs never see the reality how it is, instead you always claim as you are victim???
In case of Serb protests I would like to add something:

i). How come to buy a product where ever in the world without paying it?

ii). Why it is needed to spend so much time to understand the whole reality?

iii). Does Belgrade has any deadline when to stop these really bothering situations?

iv). I'm very confident that foreign investors won't invest either in Kosova nor in Republic of Serbia!!!

v). Sooner or later no other option Kosova and Rep. of Serbia will live in same union and that is EU.

Don't invest in wrong ideas!

Don't waste your and our monies!

Don't let the future on the hand's of criminal groups in both sides!

Let's the freedom flows free in Balkan...

'we in the UK can change our suppliers with a phone call why not the Serbs?
(Diana, 11 May 2009 09:27) '

You've got it all wrong my dear. In UK you can only choose between the suppliers offered to you, you can't just pick and choose any supplier in the world.

"He said that they refuse to pay their bills to the Kosovo company in charge of electricity distribution, KEK, and instead want Belgrade to solve the problem and introduce a second provider – the public power enterprise, EPS. "

Thou shall payeth your electricity bills, and thou shall haveth electricity. Those who don't payeth stayeth in the cold.

Anyone who throws stones and blocks roads should be thrown in prison. Try doing that in NY, see how quickly you end up in jail.

Kate:
"It is illegal to just cut people off without taking them through the correct legal procedure."

You're absolutely right. But it's also illegal to throw rocks at the Police.

Let's not get into correct procedures, Serbia holds a really polished Human Right record, 3-4 wars in a decade, that's all.

Let's be reasonable for once!
Pay the bills everyone.

#2 Dulo, I fully agree with you. There is some news about US request made to Serbia to control “their irresponsible self-proclaimed leaders” in Kosovo. Part of Ambassador’s Munther interview and request: “I’m talking about people living in Mitrovica and your Government knows who they are. These people who inflame violence are a danger to their own security and the security of others. This is not the way to solve problems”.
So, Mr. Goran is kind of doing what he’s being told.

# 9, Diana, I don’t know if you truly can change the company by a phone call, but even if that’s true, that’s because you would chose another company operating within UK.
I’m sure companies in UK would have cut you off within six months, if you didn’t pay the bills, so to me the request made by these villagers is purely political.

Anyway, I’ve said it earlier in some other posts related to this problem that the offer made by KEK is really e very generous one. All they are asking is to pay a lump sum of 26 € per 2 months, and then continue with regular bills thus forgetting the accumulated debt. This is way too generous.

"Protesters blocked the main road preventing freedom of movement then hurled stones, bottles and other object at police and police should nor react, right Iowe."
Kosova-USA

"Anyone who throws stones and blocks roads should be thrown in prison. Try doing that in NY, see how quickly you end up in jail."
(Tunxh, 11 May 2009 14:01)

"You're absolutely right. But it's also illegal to throw rocks at the Police."
(Bes, 11 May 2009 15:14)

Ironic. Of course, these sentiments did not apply when the KAlbanians were the ones throwing the rocks. You have turned into what you purportedly despised most. If KAlbanians did in fact suffer as much as they claim, then why is it that they do not understand those who now are suffering? How is it that on February 16, 2008, KAlbanians touted self-determination and human rights, but a day later decided to ignore them?

kate, you are a true authoritarian on all aspects of international law. It is just a shame you never read the documents you quote from.
There is a big difference in not being able to pay a bill and "refusing" to pay a bill.
Just because they are Serbian does not mean they should get a free ride. I personally know of Albanian families that are without electricity because they "cannot" pay.
lowe the police brutality comment is so far off the mark, it is unbelievable someone made it.

People in Kosovo who do not pay are warned that electricity will be cut off. After the warning if nothing has changed their supply is cut off.It is important to mention that every house hold in these villages owes thousands of Euros to KEK not hundreds. No EU company tolerates such a thing, so please try something else it might sell

Some people have to understand that not the same rules apply in Germany, UK, USA when it comes to these matters. Every country deals in it own way no matter the ethnic bacground and no International convention protects the debtors thats why Serbian gov. says nothing and makes no political issue out of it sicen there is no case. If you choose to take them all to court than they will all have criminal record, making them criminals, which is worst.

Due to circumstances there is no possibility of having another supplier and this is all thanks to Serbia who is making lots of money from power transmition in the region, however if Serbia decides to lower or scrap the transmition fee than there might be a possibility.

Social welfare is available for those that apply and qualify and it is very low, for all citizens of Kosova. By the way, comparing Kosova with EU and USA is really a comlpliment but that is not how you do the comparison in order to get to results, logic.

Schools in those areas work only in one shift sicen thay have very low number of pupils, they have no computers like most of shcool in Kosova, so power does no play such a big role.
There are no hospitals in those ares while the clinics are supplied with power generators for sometime now so they can produce their own energy when needed. Power cuts are part of everyday life of every Kosovar, due to large demenand and low supply of power from KEK, this is how life is in Kosova for all not only for Serbs.

To conclude this, it is left to K-Serbs to find a solution for themselves, which is fair.

Come on Tunxh you have gone too far, I would recommend them (protesters) to “protest” in that way in Belgrade, and they will most probably find out the generosity of the Serbian regime.
By the way; every one who was in position to watch the latest news, he could have easily noticed slogans “Kosovo je Serbia” and insulting of policemen with the dirtiest language. In other words the power was just an excuse to continuing with the destructivity of those who are paid to do so.

If they want nothing to do with KEK why do the want FREE electricity from KEK? Are these trouble makers for real??? Le them get electricity from Serbia. In the mean time cut them off. In my area and everywhere in the world a cut-off would be the most natural thing.

Kate, these bills haven’t been paid for 10 years not six month or 1 year. I understand that Serbs are in a more vulnerable position than Albanians, but again, if they want to solve this problem they should address it with the Kosovo Government. It is simply impossible to fulfill this request: “He said that they refuse to pay their bills to the Kosovo Company in charge of electricity distribution, KEK, and instead want Belgrade to solve the problem and introduce a second provider – the public power enterprise, EPS”. This paragraph tells it all. They simply don’t want to pay to KEK, which is the only company to provide this service.
I pay electricity every month and yet I experience power cuts almost everyday. If I had the possibility to choose between KEK and another electrical company operating in Kosovo, I would have chosen the one that provides electricity 24/7, but unfortunately KEK is the only ‘solution’.

I agree with you that cutting off electricity collectively is really not a solution, but if the whole village didn’t pay it then there is nothing to talk more about it, but if there is a single family paying in the entire village or city then it should receive the service.

Ron, you can say what ever you want, you can say that Kosovo does not really exist; it’s a dream, a fairy tale or whatever but that is far from reality. You think that by repeating over and over “Kosovo is a province” or “Kosovo is Serbia” will indeed be that way.

UNMIK is no more! How can you go to something inexistent in terms of decision-making and lack of power to solve a problem like this one in question?

Ok. I’ll be nice and fulfill you this “dream” and say that UNMIK is still in power, but I’ll have to ask you a simple question. UNMIK was in full control from 1999 to 2008 operating under 1244, right? How many months have Serbs paid their electricity during this period???!!! Does it say anywhere in Res. 1244 that Serbs are exempted from paying electricity?? And I say all should obey the law.

“It is very important Serbs (but also Albanians) stick on this: don't make the illegal government legal!”

You are very wrong here. The current Government was elected while UNMIK was still in power, and it was the SRSG himself who legitimized it. Kosovo Government and its institutions where build and supported by all international organizations: UNMIK, OSCE, KFOR, etc.

Its funny how these serbs are refusing to sign a contract with KEK and want a different electricity provider, only after KEK has finally decided to do something about their non-payment.

For 10 years they never complained about KEK - Why? Free electricity!

Now that they are being asked to pay -all of the sudden KEK is not good enough.

If they were so against KEK and Kosovan institutions - why did they not stop using electicity 10 years ago and protest about wanting a different provider?

The truth I most K. Serbs did not want a electricity provider from Serbiam because they knew they would have to pay for it!

I as Albanian have difficulties to understand why KEK is being so cruel against the poor in Kosovo, no matter of nationality.

I would have sympathised with th Serbs if they said they are not paying because they don't have money. The reasons they are stating make me reconsider my opinion on this and it seems like they are not paying because they don't want to do so. This is not acceptable and is a threat to the society because if every one does so the energy production and distribution will collapse.

The long term solution will be to erase all the old debt for private housholds in Kosovo and start from zero but this will be unfair for those that did pay. Yes many in Kosovo do not have money to pay but many other have but don't pay.

As I understand it KEK is not good enough is it?
Maybe only Albania has more power cuts in Europe than Kosovo. And I would add that the answer to this problem isn't to cut people off, the answer is for KEK to do their jobs properly and (increase) secure a stable supply.

Let me just inform you that Slovenes and Albanian goverment are investing in Albania E145 000 000 euro on 5 hydro plants in Albania that will produce 350 billion of KW per year. Let me just put it to you in prospective -> Albania and Kosova at the moment spend 7 billion KW per year. And thats just 1 river wich flows from the mountains. As far the electricity concerns I am pretty sure the whole of balkans will be our customer. Who knows perhaps some will be exported to Russia even.

The Serbian government doesn't understand the West, that's obvious. When the Russians blockaded West Berlin, the Germans and the Allies supported the population - they made sure there were jobs, power, reconstruction... The West Berliners were viewed as heroes, and worthy of support.

The Serbian government has done just the opposite, emphasizing the pitiable aspects of the people in the villages. If anybody felt sorry for them at the beginning, they've stopped by now. And all they've done, apparently, is loyally follow their government's orders. It's time for a rethink on what's best for Serbia as a whole and for the Serbians living 'down there.'

As I understand it KEK is not good enough is it?
Maybe only Albania has more power cuts in Europe than Kosovo. And I would add that the answer to this problem isn't to cut people off, the answer is for KEK to do their jobs properly and (increase) secure a stable supply.

On this issue I of course advocate a compromise but personally speaking I thank the lord I'm living in a town where there are no power cuts or that I am punished with being cut off because others don't pay bills.

Ron, Please read 1244 before commenting on it again. The main core of 1244 says the goal of international civilian presence is to help establish an autonomous democratic govt and then transfer authority to them.
That part does not matter whether you wish to call it a province or a an independent country. It has its own democratic govt elected without any control from Serbia hence the word "autonomous".
Your constant input that you are only a supporter of international law is totally baseless unless you actually read the documents.

"He said that they refuse to pay their bills to the Kosovo company in charge of electricity distribution, KEK, and instead want Belgrade to solve the problem and introduce a second provider – the public power enterprise, EPS."

Here we are! Enough is enough! Everyone is equal towards Kosova's law and constitution.

In Belgrade late on Sunday, Minister for Kosovo Goran Bogdanović called on the protesters in the three Serb villages to calm the situation, avoid conflicts with KPS members, and solve the problem peacefully.

GET REAL MR. GORAN! Belgrade's comments make me more and more sick day after day. Kosovo Serbs are the true heroes by standing and fighting for what they believe in. Everyone knows they have nobody then themselves.

A battle of 100,000 versus 2 million is not easy. Thanks Belgrade again for your strong supprt!

"Why you Serbs never see the reality how it is, instead you always claim as you are victim???"

That's because they are.
Let's the freedom flows free in Balkan...
(Master-ks, 11 May 2009 14:58)

Right on. Leave the Serbs alone and let them live in their free country, Serbia. Kosovo is a part of that country but they are not free there because your "government" is holding them hostage.
Oh,I get it. You mean your freedom to steal their land and make them second class citizens.

"Let me just inform you that Slovenes and Albanian goverment are investing in Albania E145 000 000 euro on 5 hydro plants in Albania that will produce 350 billion of KW per year. Let me just put it to you in prospective -> Albania and Kosova at the moment spend 7 billion KW per year. And thats just 1 river wich flows from the mountains. As far the electricity concerns I am pretty sure the whole of balkans will be our customer. Who knows perhaps some will be exported to Russia even"
(Dulo, 11 May 2009 22:08)"

I think you have your figures all mixed up there. You wouldn't create that incredible hydro generating capacity for 145,000,000 euro. For example, I have knowledge of a hydro scheme in Europe. It cost circa 200,000,000 euro and has the capacity to power some 250,000 homes.

For 145,000,000 euro you can build a plant that can generate generate 50 times your requirements? That's absurd. But if you can, you will dominate europe with electricity at a tiny fraction of the price now. Russia, UK, Norway and the other oil and gas producers in europe best be worried! To put your figures in perspective these five small hydro schemes can generate enough to just about power all of the United Kingdom yet we are spending billions upon billions!

Of course, the Slovenians will own and operate these schemes for 35 years. Guess what? The typical plant and equipment life in hydro schemes is about 40 years. You'll need to invest some serious sums after that.

Good luck.

Dulo this isn't a matter of pride, its a question of having a constant, stable supply of electriciy. God knows in this age this is something that should happen in Europe (and beyond).
I know about that project you mentioned, but are you saying that the cuts will cease after this is up and running?
I'm not an expert but my bet is that its not just a supply problem but of capacity / quality of the system.

I hope this problem can be solved soon.

I know about that project you mentioned, but are you saying that the cuts will cease after this is up and running?

I hope Bganon it will work, even if its balkans..