Polls Open in Serbian Elections

Polls are open in the Serbian general elections, which are being seen as a choice between nationalism or greater openness to the West. Public opinion surveys ahead of Sunday’s elections indicate the vote will be evenly divided between the county’s two main ideologies, represented by the nationalist Radical Party and the pro-Europe alliance, led by President Boris Tadic.

The Radical Party wants to regain control over recently independent Kosovo - a move that would likely scuttle the Tadic faction’s ambitions to take Serbia into the European Union.

Neither side is expected to win a clear majority, leaving a populist bloc led by outgoing Prime Minister Vojislav Kostunica likely having the key role in forming a new government.

Mr. Kostunica favors abandoning plans to join the EU, and instead forging closer ties with Russia.

Serbian nationals living in the United States, Canada, Britain and Portugal cast ballots Saturday.

Earlier this year, Mr. Kostunica formed an uneasy coalition with the pro-European President Tadic. But the two parted ways over how to deal with the European Union after Brussels recognized Kosovo’s declaration of independence.

Mr. Kostunica said Serbia should abandon plans to become an EU member and forge closer ties with Russia, which sided with Belgrade on the issue of Kosovo’s independence. But President Tadic sees Serbia’s future with Europe, regardless of Kosovo’s status.

He disbanded parliament in March after Mr. Kostunica left the coalition and called for today’s general elections.
Some information for this report was provided by AFP, AP and Reuters.

by VOA News

Net News Publisher