With the Croatian presidential election looming, incumbent president Zoran Milanović, known for his controversial positions and fierce rhetoric, finds himself at the forefront of the political battlefield.
Slated for Sunday, the election features eight candidates, but Milanović, who has previously served as the country’s prime minister, is seen as the favorite. His populist style and his criticism of Western military support for Ukraine amid the raging conflict with Russia have made him both popular and polarizing.
If no candidate secures more than 50% of the vote, a runoff is set for January 12, 2024. Forecasts suggest this scenario is likely.
Milanović has been vocal against Croatia’s involvement in the conflict, stating, "No Croatian soldier will take part in somebody else's war." This has struck a chord with certain voters who are wary of foreign entanglements.
Competing against him is Dragan Primorac, endorsed by the governing Hrvatska Democratska Zajednica, or Croatian Democratic Union (HDZ) party, led by Prime Minister Andrej Plenković. Primorac is positioning himself as the unifying candidate, aiming to counter Milanović's divisive reputation. The stakes are high, as the presidency holds significant authority even if it is largely ceremonial, including the role of supreme commander of the military.
Milanović's outspoken nature, particularly about EU policies on Ukraine, has attracted attention. He has consistently advocated for Croatia to avoid global disputes, emphasizing the need for neutrality, even as the country remains firmly within NATO and the EU framework.
"Croatia's place is in the West, not the East," countered Primorac, highlighting the divide on foreign policy between the two main candidates.
Primorac is also facing headwinds, as recent corruption allegations against the health minister tied to his party have sullied the campaign. Analysts suggest this case has dominated pre-election discussions, potentially impacting voter sentiment.
Political expert Andjelko Milardović has weighed in on Milanović's potential reelection, calling it beneficial for the balance of power within Croatia’s political system. He expressed hope for greater accountability and checks on the ruling party's influence, stating, "We are interested to see a balance and control of power."
Milanović's support primarily stems from the center-left Social Democrats, Croatia's largest opposition party, positioning him well within the electorate amid criticisms of the ruling party's governance.
Meanwhile, Marija Selak Raspudić, polling third, emerges as another contender. Initially associated with the right, she now runs as non-partisan and focuses on issues affecting everyday citizens, such as economic hardship and the country’s population decline. Her campaign resonates with voters frustrated over corruption and economic management.
Trailing behind Raspudić is Ivana Kekin, the candidate from the left-green party, Možemo (“We Can”). She is often perceived as the voice of a younger generation, advocating for new perspectives on governance. Married to a popular rock musician, she champions social issues and has directly accused Primorac and HDZ of financial improprieties stemming from corruption.
Despite the crowded field, analysts believe few of the other four candidates can make significant headway, as they are polling far behind the leading candidates. The situation is particularly tense considering Croatia’s recent history as the EU's newest member and the rising public dissatisfaction with political corruption and ineffective governance.
Voter sentiment is also shaped by broader concerns about economic stability and quality of life within the country of approximately 3.8 million residents. Zagreb resident Ilka Matić expressed skepticism about the candidates, noting, "There is little difference between them all," reflecting widespread voter disenchantment.
With the election just days away, both Milanović and Primorac face intense scrutiny, each vying to forge their vision for Croatia's future at this pivotal moment. Voters must weigh their options carefully, as the outcome will not only shape the presidency but potentially the direction of Croatian policy on the global stage.
