Political commentator Boško Jakšić has warned that Serbia is entering a “dangerous phase” following recent local elections in Mionica, Sečanj, and Negotin, which were marred by incidents, irregularities, and alleged intimidation of observers.
Jakšić highlighted that the Serbian government under President Aleksandar Vučić has failed to implement any commitments made during the visit of European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, including the formation of the REM Council and cleaning up the voter registry. He emphasized that the ruling Serbian Progressive Party (SNS) is resistant to any external criticism, ignoring advice that could advance Serbia’s path toward EU membership.
According to independent observers, including the organization CRTA, the elections were marked by threats, physical attacks, and the presence of organized groups intimidating voters, prompting CRTA to suspend observation in Mionica.
SNS declared victories in all three municipalities, with President Vučić attributing his party’s success to overcoming “a year of terror and impossible conditions” allegedly caused by opposition supporters. Jakšić, however, warned that the election results illustrate a government unwilling to undertake reforms, relying on criminalized and organized elements to maintain power.
He noted that financial mechanisms from the EU may be the only effective tool to incentivize change in Serbia, as personal sanctions are ineffective due to the ruling elite’s foreign financial holdings. Jakšić also stressed that electoral fraud and irregularities are likely to intensify in upcoming national elections.
Student and opposition representatives stated that despite the intimidation, the elections showed that citizens can exercise their rights without fear, although they condemned the overall environment of pressure and coercion.
The EU urged a “swift and transparent investigation” into all reported incidents and reiterated that full implementation of OSCE/ODIHR recommendations remains a priority to ensure credible electoral processes in Serbia.
