Conservatives lead the legislative elections, but are far from a majority

Croatia is preparing to experience fierce debates and fresh tensions following Wednesday April 17's inconclusive legislative elections.

According to partial results based on more than 80% of the vote, outgoing Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic's HDZ will lead with 61 seats, five fewer than in 2020. Behind the conservatives, the Social Democrats (SDP) are in second place with Croatian President Zoran Milanovic with 42 seats. In both cases, it suggests tough negotiations to build a majority out of the 76 seats needed to form a separate government.

Andrej Blenkovic had yet to comment on the results as of midnight. “These are not the results we expected.”On the other hand, Pedja recognized Grbin, the leader of the Social Democrats. “But now we have days, weeks, months of negotiations. Negotiations that will bring about the change that will make Croatia a corruption-free country.”he said. “It starts tomorrow, with everyone who said they wouldn't go [en coalition] With HDZ. Now is the time to see if they are lying or if they really want change.”.

Zoran Milanovic, a surprise candidate for the post of prime minister

Behind the two largest Croatian parties, the nationalist right wing of the Patriotic Homeland Movement is in third place with thirteen seats. Next come the most radical conservatives who can win at eleven. The left-wing environmental party Mozemo should be ten. So all possibilities for an alliance seem to be open.

“It is clear that we are the third political force in Croatia and we will talk to anyone who invites us”That was said by the fatherland chief Ivan Benava Malai “All Camps Call Us”.

After a hectic campaign in the form of a boxing match between the prime minister and the president, the long-time adversaries of Croatian political life, the time has come for talks.

“I will talk to everyone who wants an undesignated Croatia where people don't steal, where people don't rob, where people don't cheat, who don't respect traffic rules – not to mention criminal law. Head of National Prosecution Office”A surprise candidate for prime minister was announced during the vote, Zoran Milanovic.

Although judges deemed his candidacy unconstitutional unless he resigned from the presidency, Social Democrat Zoran Milanovic campaigned as a front-runner, outgoing Prime Minister Andrej Blenkovic, at the cost of several outbursts and insults. When thieves and barbarians take advantage of their power, you have to behave like this and show your muscles.He explained.

Resignation of many ministers

Corruption has long been the Achilles' heel of the HDZ, which has ruled Croatia for most of Croatia since independence in 1991. Many ministers have had to resign in recent years, with many scandals marring political life. This did not stop Croats from voting in large numbers – more than 60% of the electorate voted, up from 46.9% in the 2020 elections.

The prime minister, a presidential foe for years, campaigned on promises of stability and seriousness to the 3.8 million people in office since 2016. While recalling that the country's entry into the Eurozone and Schengen area was subject to his mandate.

“A lot has been achieved in recent years, but there are always new tasks, new challenges, new problems”He said after voting in the capital Zagreb. “In a significantly changed geopolitical environment in the face of security threats, it is important that Croatia operates proactively, responsibly and reliably, and that all our citizens are safe.”Mr. Blenkovic added.

A member of NATO since 2009 and a member of the European Union (EU) since 2013, Croatia is one of the poorest countries in the EU, with an average monthly salary of 1,240 euros.