The observation mission of the Kreni-Promeni reported that by 10:00 a.m., a “large number of irregularities of varying severity” had been recorded at polling stations across Serbia, which, they say, could affect the integrity of the electoral process.
Among the most serious violations identified are voting without valid identification, attempts to vote on behalf of others, ballot stuffing, and the removal of ballots from polling stations.
According to the report, these occurrences may point to organized manipulation mechanisms such as the so-called “Bulgarian train.”
In the preliminary findings, the most frequent irregularities include photographing ballots, the use of mobile phones behind voting screens, family and group voting, and the maintenance of parallel voter lists. Cases of organized transportation of voters and the presence of unauthorized individuals at polling stations were also recorded.
“A significant number of serious irregularities have been observed that may impact the integrity of the electoral process, particularly patterns of systematic pressure on voters and attempts to manipulate electoral will,” the observation mission stated.
Although no physical violence was recorded at polling stations themselves, observers noted a series of incidents nearby—including the presence of groups of masked individuals wearing hoods and caps, as well as attacks on journalists and observers. Such an atmosphere, in certain municipalities, creates a sense of serious security tension and further affects voters’ freedom to cast their ballots without pressure.
Particular concern was raised over the use of parallel voter records, which observers say appeared in all municipalities where local elections are being held.
“The use of parallel lists is a serious indicator of systemic pressure on voters and attempts to control electoral will,” the report warned.
Observers also reported cases of organized transportation of voters, as well as situations where packages or other material goods were distributed near polling stations.
They further noted the presence of individuals not part of official electoral boards, including what were described as “fake observers.”
The report also highlights numerous procedural violations, including improper sealing of ballot boxes, delays in opening polling stations, irregularities in identity verification, misuse of UV lamps, and issues with voter registries.
According to Kreni-Promeni, the highest risks to electoral integrity have so far been recorded in municipalities such as Aranđelovac, Bajina Bašta, Bor, Kladovo, Kula, Lučani, and Smederevska Palanka.
