ZAGREB, Croatia -- Croatia’s left-leaning president, Zoran Milanović, is making his bid for reelection this Sunday against several contenders, including the candidate backed by the ruling conservative government. Known for his outspoken criticism of Western military support for Ukraine during its conflict with Russia, Milanović has positioned himself as the favored candidate but faces challenges from notable opponents.
At 58, Milanović has turned his presidency, which is largely ceremonial, to his advantage, acting as supreme commander of the military and holding considerable political influence. Since taking office, he has often clashed with current Prime Minister Andrej Plenković, with their rivalry shaping Croatia's political scene. Plenković's Hrvatska Democratska Zajednica (HDZ) party has chosen Dragan Primorac, a pediatrician and university professor, to run against Milanović, seeking to present himself as more unifying.
The elections come as Croatia grapples with rising inflation, widespread corruption, and labor shortages, all key issues for the electorate. Analysts indicate the possibility of no candidate gaining more than 50 percent of the votes during the first round, paving the way for a runoff on January 12.
Milanović's tenure has not been without controversy. Critically, he has blocked Croatia’s participation in NATO's training missions for Ukraine. "No Croatian soldier will take part in somebody else’s war," he declared, emphasizing his stance against international military involvement. This position has drawn backlash, particularly amid the heightened tensions due to Russia's actions.
His main opponent, Primorac, has taken issue with Milanović’s approach, asserting, "Croatia's place is in the West, not the East," and attempting to align his campaign with mainstream Western values. Unfortunately for Primorac, his candidacy has been overshadowed by accusations of systemic corruption within the government, particularly concerning the recent corruption case involving Croatia’s health minister, which has rattled trust among voters.
The political rivalry has degenerated to personal attacks, with Milanović stating of Primorac, "He is as fake as a 13-euro note and boring as a friendly football match," indicative of the vitriol exchanged between the two. Despite the minimal powers of the presidency, many voters believe the position can tip the political balance. Retired diplomat Davor Faget expressed support for Milanović, indicating, "Powers are minimal but even so the president can do a lot, it has to be someone truly worthy."
Outside the primary two candidates, Marija Selak Raspudić, running as conservative independent and focusing on issues like economic distress and corruption, is polling third. Meanwhile, Ivana Kekin, representing the left-green party Možemo, emphasizes new ideas for younger generations. Kekin, who asserts she is "a president for a new generation," has criticized Primorac on corruption concerning health care funding. Yet, most Croatians remain skeptical about the broad impact of the presidential office, noting dissatisfaction about the focus shifting more to personality clashes rather than constructive conflict resolution.
Voter engagement appears tepid, particularly among the youth, facing challenges of affordable housing and job stability. "Maybe that's why they decide not to vote, because they look at it in a fatalistic way," remarked Iva Jurisic, an 18-year-old student. This disconnect is emblematic of the broader disenchantment with the political system.
Returning to the elections, political expert Andjelko Milardović commented, "We are interested to see balance and control of power," indicating many see Milanović’s reelection as necessary to check the ruling party's influence over the government institutions. Looking forward, it will be interesting to see not just how the votes will be cast, but also how these election campaigns might reshape Croatia's political future.
With about 1.6 million eligible voters, the final turnout and decision will reveal which vision the electorate chooses for Croatia moving beyond these tumultuous times.
