Croatias President Milanovi wins another term after defeating ruling party candidate in runoff
CNNJan 12
Croatia's Milanovic Wins Presidential Race
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Above: Croatian Pres. Zoran Milanovic greets supporters in Zagreb on Sunday, Jan. 12, 2025, after winning the presidential election. Image copyright: Petar Santini/Contributor/Bloomberg via Getty Images
The Facts
Incumbent Croatian Pres. Zoran Milanovic secured a landslide victory in the presidential runoff election, winning over 74% of the vote against challenger Dragan Primorac's approximately 25%.
The election outcome represents the highest score achieved by any presidential candidate since Croatia's independence in 1991, with a voter turnout of approximately 44%.
The Spin
Establishment-critical narrative
The overwhelming victory represents a clear mandate for change and a strong message to the governing HDZ party about corruption and democratic accountability. The result demonstrates widespread public dissatisfaction with the current government's handling of inflation and economic challenges.
Pro-establishment narrative
Milanovic's stance on Ukraine and criticism of the EU threaten Croatia's international standing and relationships with Western allies. His populist rhetoric and confrontational style risk isolating Croatia from its strategic partners and undermining the country's position within NATO and the EU.
