In Serbia, an extraordinary parliamentary election began, which is perceived as an attempt by President Alexander Vuchich and his Serbian Progressive Party (SNS) to obtain another four -year term after large -scale anti -government protests caused by two mass shooting in the initial part of this year, which seriously undermined the popularity.
The polling stations opened at 7:00 local time and will close at 20:00. The elections can participate in 6.5 million citizens who are entitled to vote. Among the 18 parties and alliances involved in the race, the passing barrier for joining parliament is 3% of the vote.
The latest public opinion survey showed the leadership of SNS from 39.8%, followed by the Left -centric Alliance "Serbia v. Violence" from 25.6%, and the Socialist Party (SPS) Ivica Dacic, the former SNS partner, has 8.9%.
The first unofficial results are expected after 9:00 pm, as exit polls are prohibited by law. The State Election Commission will notify the full results in the coming days.
These parliamentary elections, which coincide with local elections in many municipalities, Belgrade and voivodina, occur after two tragic shooting in May, which led to the death of 18 people, including nine students. This led to mass protests and worsened Vicich and SNS, which controlled power in the country for decades. The unfavorable situation is supported by inflation at 8%, which further emphasizes the dissatisfaction of society.
Opposition and human rights activists also blame Vicich and SNS of bribery of voters, restriction of media freedom, violence against opposition, corruption and communications with organized crime. Vuchich and his allies reject these charges.
