Local elections were held on June 8, 2025, in the municipalities of Kosjerić and Zaječar. The elections attracted significant attention due to the close contest between the Serbian Progressive Party (SNS) and the united opposition in Kosjerić, where SNS won by a narrow margin of only 51 votes. Voter turnout was high, with over 76% in Kosjerić and about 54% in Zaječar. The opposition in Kosjerić did not recognize the results, citing irregularities, while SNS declared victory. In Zaječar, SNS achieved a convincing win. The elections were seen as an important test for the political situation in Serbia, especially in the context of student protests and social tensions. The observer mission CRTA recorded some irregularities but no significant complaints. Three electoral lists participated in Kosjerić, while eight lists competed in Zaječar. The results showed a division of mandates between SNS and the opposition, with the minority Russian party failing to pass the threshold.
Political Perspectives:
Left: Left-leaning sources emphasize the high voter turnout and the significance of the elections as a test of political dynamics in Serbia, highlighting the opposition’s claims of irregularities and the broader context of social unrest and student protests. They focus on the need for transparency and fair electoral processes.
Center: Centrist sources report the election results factually, noting the close race in Kosjerić and the clear victory in Zaječar by SNS. They mention the official data on turnout and results, the participation of multiple parties, and the role of observer missions, without taking sides or emphasizing controversies.
Right: Right-leaning sources highlight the victory of the Serbian Progressive Party (SNS) as a confirmation of their political strength, downplaying opposition claims of irregularities. They emphasize the legitimacy of the election process and the mandate given to SNS by the voters, portraying the results as a success for the ruling party.