ZAGREB, Croatia: Croatia commenced voting in a significant parliamentary election featuring a tense contest between Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic of the conservative Croatian Democratic Union (HDZ) and President Zoran Milanovic, representing the Social Democrats (SDP).
The campaign has been marked by intense rivalry, with Milanovic challenging Plenkovic’s bid for a third term amid concerns over corruption, labor shortages, inflation, and migration.
President Milanovic’s unexpected candidacy injected fresh energy into the race, characterizing the election as a pivotal moment for Croatia’s future and urging voters to reject the HDZ.
Plenkovic, in turn, criticized Milanovic’s candidacy, accusing him of constitutional violations and divisive rhetoric, while emphasizing his achievements in guiding Croatia towards eurozone membership and Schengen area integration.
The election outcome is uncertain, with no party expected to secure a majority. Polls suggest the HDZ will lead with approximately 30% of the vote, followed by the SDP at 20%, positioning smaller parties like the nationalist Homeland Movement as potential coalition partners.
President Milanovic’s tenure concludes in January, but he has indicated willingness to step down if his party secures a parliamentary majority to form a new government.
Polling stations opened at 0500 GMT and will close 12 hours later, setting the stage for a pivotal electoral outcome in Croatia.
