Croatia's presidential race is set to advance to a runoff on January 12 after incumbent President Zoran Milanovic fell just short of securing an outright majority in Sunday's election. With 99.88 percent of the votes counted, Milanovic led with 49.10 percent, backed by the largest opposition party, the Social Democratic Party.
Dragan Primorac, representing the ruling Croatian Democratic Union, received 19.35 percent of the vote. As no candidate achieved more than half, Croatian election law mandates that the top two contenders face off in a runoff two weeks later.
Addressing his supporters, President Milanovic expressed his gratitude and optimism. \"I believe that in two weeks we will celebrate victory,\" he stated confidently.
Primorac, a 59-year-old physician and scientist making a political comeback after 15 years, positioned himself as a unifier focusing on family values and patriotism. Speaking to his base, he described the runoff as \"a great opportunity\" for Croatia to embrace necessary changes.
The election occurs against the backdrop of economic challenges, including biting inflation and a labor shortage, affecting the EU and NATO member with a population of 3.8 million. The Croatian president serves a five-year term and is eligible for one re-election.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
