Sejdiu was secretary-general of the strongest and oldest Kosovo party, the Democratic League of Kosovo, which he founded in 1989 with Rugova, Kosovo's first president, who died of lung cancer Jan. 21.

Considered a moderate and a follower of the nonviolent policies of Rugova, Sejdiu was the favorite of the United States, European Union and United Nations. He was favored at a time when it was thought some of the "hawks," leaders of the former Kosovo Liberation Army, might bring new tensions to the province as negotiations with Belgrade on the province's future are starting.

After being elected, Sejdiu said he would support the final status of Kosovo to be determined on the basis of the "political will of Kosovo people," adding that "complete independence" is the only possible outcome of the negotiations.

The Japan Times Weekly: Feb. 18, 2006
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