Croatia’s President Zoran Milanović has been re-elected for a second term, winning a decisive victory in the presidential runoff held on January 12, 2025. With over 74% of the votes, Milanović defeated his conservative rival Dragan Primorac, marking a significant moment in Croatian politics as the ruling party faced a historic defeat.
Key Takeaways
- Zoran Milanović won approximately 74% of the vote, the highest score for a presidential candidate since Croatia’s independence in 1991.
- Dragan Primorac, backed by the ruling Croatian Democratic Union (HDZ), received around 26% of the votes.
- Voter turnout was approximately 44%, slightly lower than in the first round of voting.
Election Overview
In the runoff election, Zoran Milanović, representing the opposition Social Democratic Party (SDP), secured over 1.1 million votes, while Primorac garnered just over 380,000 votes. This election result is seen as a strong rejection of the current government, led by Prime Minister Andrej Plenković, who has faced criticism over issues such as corruption and inflation.
Milanović’s victory speech expressed gratitude to voters both in Croatia and abroad, emphasizing the importance of their support. He stated, "Croatia, thank you! This victory is a recognition of my work over the past five years and a message to those in power."
Political Context
Milanović’s presidency has been marked by a combative relationship with Prime Minister Plenković. The two leaders have frequently clashed over various issues, including foreign policy and domestic governance. Despite the largely ceremonial role of the president in Croatia, Milanović’s outspoken nature and criticism of the government have made him a significant political figure.
His stance on international matters, particularly regarding NATO and the European Union, has also drawn attention. Milanović has been critical of Western military support for Ukraine, positioning himself as a controversial figure in Croatian and European politics.
Implications of the Election
The election results signal a potential shift in Croatian politics, as Milanović’s re-election may embolden opposition parties and challenge the long-standing dominance of the HDZ. Political analysts suggest that this outcome could lead to increased scrutiny of the government’s actions and policies, particularly in light of ongoing economic challenges.
Milanović’s victory is not just a personal triumph but also a reflection of the electorate’s desire for change. As he embarks on his second term, the president faces the challenge of addressing pressing issues such as inflation, corruption, and labor shortages while navigating a complex political landscape.
Conclusion
Zoran Milanović’s landslide victory in the Croatian presidential election marks a pivotal moment in the country’s political history. With a clear mandate from the electorate, he is poised to continue his confrontational approach towards the ruling party, potentially reshaping the future of Croatian governance and its role within the European Union and NATO.
Sources
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- play, Al Jazeera.
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