Milanovic Poised for Second Term, Dealing Blow to HDZ Amidst Economic Challenges

Milanovic Poised for Second Term

Croatians headed to the polls on Sunday, January 12th, for a presidential runoff election. Incumbent Zoran Milanovic, backed by the left-wing opposition, appears poised for a second term, dealing a blow to the scandal-hit governing party HDZ.

Milanovic entered the contest with strong momentum, having narrowly missed an outright victory in the first round two weeks prior. He secured over 49% of the vote, while his opponent, Dragan Primorac, supported by the HDZ, garnered less than 20%.

A landslide win for Milanovic would mark the latest setback for the HDZ and Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic, Milanovic's political rival, following a high-profile corruption scandal in November. A recent survey projected Milanovic to capture over 62% of the vote compared to Primorac's 28%.

The election takes place against the backdrop of challenges facing Croatia, including the highest inflation rate in the eurozone, endemic corruption, and a labor shortage. Voting stations closed at 7pm, with exit polls expected and official results due later in the evening.

Despite the limited powers of the presidency, many believe the post plays a crucial role in maintaining political balance in Croatia. The former Yugoslav republic has been primarily governed by the HDZ since declaring independence in 1991.

"I'm not a fan of Milanovic but will vote 'against HDZ'," said Mia, a 35-year-old administrator from Zagreb. "It has too much control and Plenkovic is transforming into an autocrat," she told AFP.