SDP Withdraws Support for Milanović as Prime Minister-Designate in Croatia

In a significant political development, Peđa Grbin, the leader of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in Croatia, has announced that the party is withdrawing its support for Zoran Milanović as the prime minister-designate. Grbin cited the need to confront reality as the primary reason behind this decision, which comes in the wake of a highly contested parliamentary election in the country.

The Constitutional Court of Croatia has banned Milanović from becoming prime minister, even if his center-left SDP manages to form a majority coalition. The court's ruling stated that Milanović's statements and behavior during the campaign have disqualified him from the position. This decision has sparked a heated debate, with Milanović and the SDP criticizing the court's move, claiming it goes against the will of the people.

The confrontation between Milanović and the current Prime Minister Andrej Plenković of the center-right Croatian Democratic Union (HDZ) has been at the forefront of the election, which is being seen as a crucial test ahead of the European Parliament elections in June. While the HDZ emerged as the party with the most seats, it fell short of securing a majority to rule alone. The SDP finished second, and the far-right Homeland Movement has emerged as a potential kingmaker in the formation of the next government.

Why this matters: The withdrawal of support for Milanović and the Constitutional Court's decision have far-reaching implications for Croatia's political landscape. The outcome of this power struggle will not only shape the country's domestic policies but also its stance on key issues within the European Union.

The Constitutional Court's ruling has also raised concerns about the independence of the judiciary, with allegations surfacing that the court is controlled by the ruling conservatives. Milanović and the SDP have vowed to challenge the decision, setting the stage for a prolonged political battle in the coming weeks.

As Croatia navigates this complex political situation, the focus now shifts to the formation of a new government. With no party holding a clear majority, negotiations and alliances will be crucial in determining the future leadership of the country. The SDP's withdrawal of support for Milanović adds another layer of uncertainty to an already volatile political environment.

Key Takeaways

• SDP withdraws support for Milanović as PM-designate in Croatia
• Constitutional Court bans Milanović from becoming PM due to campaign conduct
• HDZ emerges as largest party but lacks majority, far-right Homeland Movement a kingmaker
• Ruling raises concerns over judiciary independence, SDP to challenge decision
• Uncertain political landscape as new government formation negotiations begin