Croatia’s President Zoran Milanovic Re-Elected: A Landslide Victory with a Political Twist

In a turn of events that could only be scripted in the drama of real-life politics, Croatia’s populist President Zoran Milanovic has sailed through the elections in a landslide win that had his conservative rival Dragan Primorac looking rather underwhelmed.

With over 74% of the votes counted, Zoran Milanovic didn’t just win; he practically triumphed with a flourish, leaving Primorac—backed by the centre-right Croatian Democratic Union (HDZ)—in his dust with about 26%. We’re talking more than a three-to-one ratio here! It’s like watching a well-coached soccer team score goal after goal against a rival that’s still trying to find their footing.

Now, despite the fact that a presidential role in Croatia is largely ceremonial—like being the mascot at a sports event—Milanovic’s sweeping victory delivers yet another blow to the HDZ and their head honcho, Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic, who happens to be Milanovic’s political frenemy.

This comes on the heels of a high-profile corruption scandal that shook the nation just last November. You know, nothing says “trustworthy government” quite like a corruption affair starring the leading party. So, it’s no surprise that voters are seeking a counterbalance against a party that has dominated Croatian politics since the country declared independence in the early ’90s.

With a population of around 3.8 million struggling under the weight of the eurozone’s highest inflation rate, rampant corruption, and a debilitating labor shortage, Milanovic has seized the moment. His victory is viewed by many as a signal that Croatians are hungry for change, a sentiment voiced loudly by Mia, a 35-year-old administrator from Zagreb, who was unafraid to spill the beans on her thoughts. “The HDZ has too much control, and Plenkovic is transforming into an autocrat,” she declared, perhaps with a hint of exasperation.

Once served as the left-wing prime minister, Milanovic secured the presidency in 2020 with the backing of the main opposition Social Democrats. He’s been a central figure in Croatian politics for nearly two decades, and it seems he’s become quite the master at turning the political tables. His critique-laden, populist rhetoric has found a surprisingly receptive audience, positioning him as a kind of political buffet—he seems to be nibbling bits of support from various political plates.

Political analyst Zarko Puhovski didn’t mince words when describing Milanovic’s role: “He’s the symbolic counterbalance to Plenkovic’s power.” Mwanovoc’s notorious no-holds-barred speaking style, where he often slings criticisms at both domestic and EU officials, has understandably elevated his popularity. After casting his vote in Zagreb, he swaggered out to the press proclaiming Brussels to be “in many ways autocratic”—because why not poke the bear, right?

On the flip side, Primorac has re-entered the political scene after a lengthy, 15-year sabbatical, campaigning on a platform of patriotism and family values. At 59, he’s all about unifying the nation, proclaiming, “Croatia always comes first for me,” while planning a leisurely visit to mass—because nothing says “I’m ready for leadership” quite like a good dose of divinity.

Yet critiques of Primorac’s charisma (or lack thereof) abound. Critics have labeled him a “pro-Russian puppet,” throwing shade on his perceived ability to garner support for the HDZ. On that note, Milanovic, while denouncing Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, did not hesitate to criticize Western military aid. He certainly has a flair for controversy! “The defense of democracy is not to tell everyone who doesn’t think like you that they’re a ‘Russian player,’” he quipped, calling such rhetoric “totalitarian.” Touché!

Meanwhile, the younger crowd is watching from the sidelines, fed up with the wayward discussions that seem to overlook their pressing concerns. “We hear them talking mostly about old, recycled issues,” lamented 20-year-old student Ivana Vuckovic. “What’s important to young people doesn’t even cross their minds.” In a world increasingly dominated by memes and TikTok trends, it’s no wonder the youth feel disconnected from the political monologues of their leaders.

As the dust settles from this electrifying election, it’s clear that while Zoran Milanovic may bask in the glow of victory, the real challenge lies ahead. His leadership will need to deliver not just the flashy rhetoric that captured votes, but real solutions for a nation yearning for progress.