Voters in Republika Srpska elect new leader after separatist Dodik’s ouster

Al Jazeera
Al Jazeera
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Voters in Republika Srpska are casting ballots in a snap presidential election after Milorad Dodik was removed from office. This election tests support for Dodik's party amid ongoing political tensions.
Voters in Republika Srpska elect new leader after separatist Dodik’s ouster
A What happened
In a significant political event, voters in Republika Srpska, Bosnia and Herzegovina's Serb-majority entity, are participating in a snap presidential election. This election was called after Milorad Dodik was removed from the presidency for defying the international peace envoy's rulings. Dodik's conviction included a one-year prison sentence, which he avoided by posting bail, and a six-year ban from politics. The election is seen as a critical test for Dodik's party, which has been in power for nearly two decades. Approximately 1.2 million voters are eligible to vote for one of six candidates. The main contenders are Sinisa Karan, Dodik's ally, and Branko Blanusa, an opposition candidate who has accused Dodik of corruption. Preliminary results will be available on election night, but the final count will be announced later.

Key insights

  • 1

    Dodik's Political Downfall

    Milorad Dodik was removed for defying international authority.

  • 2

    Election Significance

    This election tests the strength of Dodik's nationalist party.

  • 3

    Voter Participation

    About 1.2 million voters are eligible to participate.

Takeaways

The snap presidential election in Republika Srpska marks a pivotal moment in Bosnian politics, reflecting ongoing tensions and the potential shift in power dynamics following Dodik's removal.

Topics

Elections Society