Repeat Elections in Kosjerić: Red Berets, Tensions, and Political Drama Rock Western Serbia
Kosjerić, a small town in western Serbia, has turned into the epicenter of a political drama that feels like a tense TV series with an unpredictable ending. After the local elections held on June 8, where the Serbian Progressive Party (SNS) won by a razor-thin margin of just 51 votes, a real electoral soap opera unfolded – repeat elections at one polling station due to irregularities.
Elections that shook the town
The Higher Court in Užice annulled the results at polling station number 25 after it was found that one person voted despite not being registered in the voter list. This triggered the repeat voting, held in a highly tense atmosphere. All hospitality venues in Kosjerić were closed, and voter turnout was an impressive 48% by 11 a.m., later climbing above 70%.
Red Berets on the streets
A large group of people wearing red berets and T-shirts with the inscription JSO – the Special Operations Unit, a controversial unit disbanded after the police action “Sabre” following the assassination of Zoran Đinđić, was spotted near the polling station. This unit was active during the wars of the 1990s, and most of its commanders are currently imprisoned. Their presence at the elections added to the tension and concern among citizens.
Incidents and accusations
The current mayor Žarko Đokić claims he was attacked on the morning of the repeat elections. According to him, two men threatened and insulted him, and the police intervened. The incident was reported to the police and prosecutor’s office, but tensions did not subside. Supporters of SNS and the opposition exchanged insults, and police had to be present to prevent larger conflicts.
Results keeping everyone on edge
According to preliminary results, SNS won 50.16% of the votes, while the opposition list “United Kosjerić” secured 47.62%. The elections were extremely close, and every vote could change the local government. A third list, the Russian Party, won 0.64%, which had no significant impact on the final outcome.
What lies behind the tensions?
This electoral drama is not just a fight for power in a small town. The presence of former JSO members, incidents, and accusations of attacks point to deeper problems in Serbia’s political and social life. Is this just a local conflict or a reflection of a broader trend of polarization and violence in politics?
Conclusion
Kosjerić has become a symbol of political instability and tensions that could escalate. While citizens fight for their votes, shadows of the past and the influence of powerful groups cast long shadows over the democratic process. Will justice and law prevail, or will tensions continue to rise? Only time will tell.
So, what do you think about these elections and the presence of the red berets? Democracy or a show for the public? Drop a comment and let the people’s voice be heard!
