Vjekoslav Radić, an independent candidate and son of one of the founders of HDZ, won against Josko Roščić, the HDZ candidate, in the repeated local elections in Baška Voda. Roščić had been the mayor for eight terms, totaling 32 years. The elections were tense and lasted a month due to repeated voting in one polling station. Radić plans to reduce property taxes and conduct a review of the municipality’s status. During Roščić’s tenure, there were several scandals, including hidden properties and illegal electricity connections, which contributed to his defeat. This change marks the end of HDZ’s long-standing dominance in Baška Voda and potentially a new beginning for local governance.
Political Perspectives:
Left: Left-leaning reports emphasize the victory of an independent candidate over the long-standing HDZ establishment, highlighting the desire for change and accountability in local governance. They focus on the scandals and corruption allegations against the former HDZ mayor, framing the election as a rejection of entrenched political power and a step towards transparency and reform.
Center: Centrist coverage presents the election results factually, noting the end of a 32-year tenure by the HDZ candidate and the victory of Vjekoslav Radić, an independent supported by a youth list. It highlights the election process, including the repeated voting due to legal challenges, and outlines the plans of the new mayor without strong editorializing, providing balanced information on both candidates and the political context.
Right: Right-leaning narratives may focus on the legacy of HDZ and the significance of Radić being the son of one of the party’s founders, possibly framing the victory as a continuation of HDZ values through a new generation. They might downplay the scandals or attribute them to political attacks, emphasizing stability and experience while acknowledging the democratic process and the new leadership’s plans.
