Local elections in Zaječar and Kosjerić were held on June 8, with preliminary results showing victories for coalitions including the ruling Serbian Progressive Party (SNS) and opposition lists. The electoral commission has legal deadlines to announce final results, including the possibility of repeat voting at certain polling stations due to irregularities. Voter turnout was significant, over 50% in Zaječar and over 76% in Kosjerić. The elections were marked by tensions, reports of vote-buying, and the presence of many activists. The opposition declared victory in Kosjerić and Zaječar, while SNS also declared victory, leading to tensions and clashes among supporters. These elections were the first major test of political forces following student protests and social unrest in Serbia. Complaints and appeals regarding the results are ongoing, with final results expected after all legal challenges and possible repeat voting are resolved.
Political Perspectives:
Left: Left-leaning sources emphasize the irregularities and tensions during the elections, highlighting reports of vote-buying and intimidation. They focus on the opposition’s claims of victory and the broader context of social unrest and student protests, framing the elections as a test of democratic processes and government accountability.
Center: Centrist sources provide a balanced report on the election process, detailing the legal procedures for announcing results and handling complaints. They report on the preliminary results from both ruling and opposition parties, voter turnout statistics, and the official statements from electoral commissions, maintaining a neutral tone.
Right: Right-leaning sources highlight the victory claims of the ruling Serbian Progressive Party (SNS) and frame the elections as a success for the government despite opposition protests. They emphasize the legitimacy of the electoral process, criticize the opposition’s accusations, and portray the elections as a reaffirmation of the current political leadership’s mandate.