Zoran Milanovic is poised to win a second presidential term in Croatia, having secured 49.1% of the votes in the first round. His opponent, Dragan Primorac, backed by the ruling HDZ party, received 19.35%. The election occurs amidst significant economic challenges, and Milanovic’s victory would challenge the current political establishment led by Prime Minister Plenkovic.
Croatians are participating in a presidential run-off election with incumbent Zoran Milanovic expected to secure a second term. Milanovic, a vocal critic of NATO and military support for Ukraine, garnered 49.1 percent of the total votes in the first round. His opponent, Dragan Primorac, received 19.35 percent and is supported by the ruling Croatian Democratic Union (HDZ). Polls have opened across the country, and exit polls are anticipated shortly after voting closes this evening.
In the run-up to the presidential election, Croatia, a European Union and NATO member, faces significant challenges, including inflation and corruption scandals. Milanovic, the country’s former left-wing prime minister, has garnered considerable popularity akin to that of high-profile political figures, yet he has incited controversy through his stances on military aid and relations with Russia. As the incumbent president since 2020, he has consistently clashed with Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic, especially regarding allegations of systemic corruption within the HDZ party.
The outcome of this presidential run-off could have considerable implications for the political landscape in Croatia, particularly concerning the ruling HDZ party and Prime Minister Plenkovic’s administration. A second term for Milanovic may alter the balance of power and challenge the current government amidst existing socio-economic difficulties. As Croatians cast their votes, the nation awaits what could be a pivotal decision for its future leadership.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
