Zoran Milanovic sworn in for 2nd term as Croatia’s president

By Ismail Ozdemir

ZAGREB (AA) – Following his victory in Croatia’s Jan. 12 elections, Zoran Milanovic was sworn in Tuesday for his second term as president.

The ceremony, held at the Presidential Palace in the capital Zagreb, was attended by former presidents, military officials, and representatives from political and civil organizations, though Parliament Speaker Gordan Jandrokovic and Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic were both absent.

In his speech, Milanovic stressed the importance of state institutions ensuring citizens' peace and security, and highlighted the need for legal and social reforms to address injustice and corruption.

Milanovic stressed the importance of improving education, healthcare, and the justice system, while acknowledging ongoing economic struggles despite growth.

- 74% of vote in second round

In the December 2024 first-round election, Milanovic got 49.1% of the vote, with his rival Dragan Primorac of the HDZ party getting 19.4%.

In the second round on Jan. 12, Milanovic got over 74% of the vote.

- Who is Zoran Milanovic?

Born in 1966 in Zagreb, Milanovic served in various diplomatic roles before becoming leader of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in 2008.

After leading the SDP to victory in 2011, he served as prime minister until 2016. Milanovic returned to politics in 2019, running for president as the SDP's candidate.

He speaks English, Russian, and French, and is known for his clashes with Prime Minister Plenkovic.