Serbian Progressive Party Allegedly Uses Call Centers Amid Election Controversy

Voters in Serbia are heading to the polls today in a rerun election in Belgrade and numerous other cities and towns. This rerun comes after widespread irregularities were reported in the December 2023 elections, leading to significant political tensions and accusations of vote-rigging by the ruling Serbian Progressive Party (SNS).

The SNS, led by President Aleksandar Vucic, is accused of using Novosadski Sajam in Novi Sad and Sportski Centar Banjica in Belgrade as local call centers during the 2024 elections. Reports indicate that hundreds of SNS activists are present at these locations, allegedly coordinating efforts to influence the election outcome.

This election is critical for the SNS as they seek to cement their hold on power. The previous vote in Belgrade was marred by allegations of voter fraud, including claims that voters from other regions and neighboring Bosnia were bused into the capital to cast ballots for Vucic's party. International election observers described the December election as held in 'unjust conditions,' citing harsh rhetoric, media bias, and misuse of public resources.

President Vucic has formally pursued Serbia's membership in the European Union, but his administration has been criticized for drifting away from pro-EU democratic values and cultivating close ties with Russia and China. Pro-Western opposition groups have accused Vucic of corruption, crime links, and a crackdown on democratic processes. Despite these accusations, the opposition remains fragmented, contributing to voter apathy among Serbia's 6.5 million eligible voters.

Why this matters: The allegations of vote-rigging and misuse of public resources in Serbia's elections have significant implications for the country's democratic processes and its bid to join the European Union. If the ruling party is found to have engaged in electoral fraud, it could lead to a crisis of legitimacy and undermine trust in the government.

The rerun election will decide the leadership of over 80 article municipal councils and city halls, including key regions like Novi Sad and Nis. The stakes are high since the SNS aims to maintain control over these municipalities. However, the opposition, although divided, continues to challenge the ruling party's legitimacy, calling for free and fair elections.

International observers have expressed concerns that not much has changed since the December election. The Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) previously reported that the ballot was 'marred by harsh rhetoric, bias in the media, pressure on public sector employees, and misuse of public resources.' Despite recommendations for improvement, local observers note that these issues persist.

Polls closing and votes being counted, the spotlight remains on the alleged use of Novosadski Sajam and Sportski Centar Banjica as allegations call centers. The outcome of this election will significantly impact the political scene in Serbia, determining whether the SNS can solidify its power or if the opposition can regain ground.

Key Takeaways

• Voters in Serbia head to polls in rerun election amid allegations of vote-rigging.
• Ruling Serbian Progressive Party (SNS) accused of using call centers to influence outcome.
• Previous election in Belgrade marred by allegations of voter fraud and bias.
• Outcome crucial for SNS's hold on power and Serbia's bid to join the European Union.
• International observers express concerns over persistent issues with electoral process.