Budapest, Nov 23, (dpa/GNA) – Voters in the Republic of Srpska (RS), the Serbian entity within Bosnia-Herzegovina, began casting ballots for a new president on Sunday with six candidates contesting the early elections.
Observers see the strongest candidates as Siniša Karan from the Serb nationalist SNSD ruling party and Branko Blanuša, an electronics professor from the SDS opposition.
Karan is seen as close to deposed president Milorad Dodik, who was removed from office for separatist activities following a court ruling. This prompted the early election.
On casting his vote in Banja Luka, Karan described the vote as a confirmation of “our peace and our stability,” as well as a path to strengthening the institutions of this part of Bosnia-Herzegovina, the klix.ba site reported.
Blanuša expressed appreciation for the “free and correct” way the election was being held on casting his ballot.
Political observers do not see Karan continuing with Dodik’s separatist campaign in the event of victory. Dodik maintained good relations with Moscow during his time in office. He intends to continue as head of the SNSD, despite being banned from public office.
Dodik has also sought recently to improve relations with Washington, and the United States recently lifted sanctions on him and his supporters.
Many analysts see a cooling in previously close relations between Dodik and Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic, with Vucic angry that Dodik reached an understanding with Washington without his involvement.
Vucic pursues a seesaw policy between Moscow and the West and seeks influence in the wider Balkan region, in particular in the RS.
The early election means the new president will serve for just one year up to the end of the current parliament, and the poll is being seen as a trial run for the regular elections to parliament and the presidency next year.
Since the end of the 1992-95 Bosnian war, Bosnia-Herzegovina has comprised two entities: the Bosniak-Croat Federation (FBiH), with its largely Croation and Bosniak Muslim population, and the predominantly Serbian RS.
The components enjoy far-reaching autonomy, except in foreign, defence and security policy. The RS president has considerable influence on the appointment of government ministers and other positions and on the political agenda.
Polling stations are set to close at 7 pm (1800 GMT). Initial results are expected before midnight.
GNA