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In an unprecedented landslide victory, Zoran Milanovic, the populist candidate for president of Croatia, secured his re-election with an overwhelming majority over his conservative opponent Dragan Primorac. The government of Croatia announced that Mr. Milanovic received an astounding 74% of the vote, while Mr. Primorac, supported by the center-right HDZ party, garnered nearly 26% of the vote. This victory marks the highest vote share for a presidential contender in Croatia since its independence in 1991.
Although the role of the president in Croatia is largely ceremonial, Mr. Milanovic’s win holds significant political implications as it deals a blow to the ruling HDZ party and Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic, who is Mr. Milanovic’s political rival. This victory comes on the heels of a high-profile corruption scandal that rocked the nation just last November.
At a celebratory gathering in Zagreb, Mr. Milanovic expressed his gratitude to the people of Croatia, stating, “Croatia, thank you!” He viewed his victory as a validation of his work over the past five years and as a clear message from the Croatian people to those in power.
During the first round of the presidential election two weeks ago, Mr. Milanovic, with the backing of the left-wing opposition, received over 49% of the vote, coming tantalizingly close to an outright victory. The overall voter turnout in the election was approximately 44%, slightly lower than in the first round.
Croatia, a member of the European Union with a population of 3.8 million, faces challenges such as high inflation rates, widespread corruption, and a shortage of available workers. Against this backdrop, the election of a new president assumes added significance for the country’s future direction.
Mr. Milanovic, a former prime minister and leading figure in Croatian politics for over two decades, has been known for his vocal criticism of the European Union and local authorities. He has skillfully harnessed populist rhetoric to galvanize support across the political spectrum.
Political commentator Zarko Puhovski described Mr. Milanovic as a “political omnivore” and a vital counterbalance to the ruling government. Mr. Milanovic’s unconventional approach has won him support even from those on the right who are disillusioned with the establishment.
In contrast, Mr. Primorac, a former education minister, made his campaign about promoting family values and patriotism and fostering unity among Croatians. However, critics have accused him of lacking political charisma and failing to rally support within the HDZ base.
On the international stage, Mr. Milanovic has taken a nuanced approach, criticizing Russian actions in Ukraine while also questioning Western military interventions. He has vehemently opposed a proposal for Croatian forces to provide military training to Ukrainian troops in Germany.
As Croatia navigates these complex domestic and international challenges, the voices of its young people become increasingly important. Students like Ivana Vuckovic, aged twenty, have expressed frustration at the lack of engagement by political leaders on issues such as affordable housing and student welfare.
The re-election of Zoran Milanovic as president of Croatia offers a glimpse into the country’s evolving political landscape and the desire for change among its citizens. With his unorthodox style and populist appeal, Mr. Milanovic’s victory signals a shift in the balance of power and points towards a future where traditional political dynamics may be reassessed.
