On June 8, 2024, regular local elections are held in Zaječar and Kosjerić, where citizens elect members of the municipal assemblies. Polling stations are open from 7 AM to 8 PM, with an election silence period lasting until the closing of the polling stations. Eight electoral lists participate in Zaječar, and three in Kosjerić. Voter turnout by noon was 32.64% in Zaječar and about 47% in Kosjerić, higher than in previous elections. During the day, some irregularities and incidents were reported, including accusations of pressure and intimidation of voters, as well as police presence in the center of Kosjerić. Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić and other officials commented on the election process, emphasizing that the police will respond to any obstruction of voting and that legal penalties are in place for violations of election silence. The elections were called on April 13, 2024, with the previous ones held on March 28, 2022. Voter turnout and events at polling stations are being monitored, with preliminary results expected in the evening.
Political Perspectives:
Left: Left-leaning sources emphasize the importance of fair and transparent elections, highlighting reports of opposition activists facing intimidation and the role of police in maintaining order. They often critique the ruling party’s alleged attempts to influence voters and stress the need for democratic processes and protection of voter rights.
Center: Centrist sources provide balanced coverage focusing on the factual aspects of the elections, such as voter turnout, the number of participating lists, and official statements from election commissions and government officials. They report on incidents neutrally and emphasize the legal framework and procedures in place to ensure fair elections.
Right: Right-leaning sources tend to highlight the efforts of the ruling party and government officials to maintain order and ensure the legitimacy of the elections. They often focus on accusations against the opposition for disrupting the electoral process and stress the importance of law enforcement in preventing illegal activities and maintaining election integrity.
