Bilcik: No systemic irregularities noticed during the elections

The observer delegation from the European Parliament noticed irregularities during the election day, however, these were not significant or systemic irregularities, Vladimir Bilcik, the European Parliament rapporteur for Serbia, stated for Insajder.

"What we noticed is that the elections were well conducted and well managed. There were some irregularities concerning reports we received from places we visited about bringing in additional voters, but it was not about a large number of voters. Also, potential vote-buying, especially at polling stations and around them. But again, these were not significant incidents but rather observed on a smaller scale. So, overall, I think the elections went smoothly. Therefore, I want to congratulate the citizens of Serbia for voting in greater numbers than last year," Bilcik said.

Bilcik mentioned that it was good that Serbia would have a more representative, pluralistic parliament as a result of these republican elections. When asked if he thought the mentioned irregularities were systemic or isolated cases, Bilcik responded that the EP observer delegation had not noticed systemic irregularities on election day.

"But we also said in a joint statement of international observation missions that there were some systemic issues regarding equal campaign conditions that stemmed from the dominant position of the ruling majority and the ruling party," he added.

On the question of whether he believes this unequal position and what happened on election day could call into question the election results, Bilcik replied that it was not up to him to judge the election results.

"That is up to the authorities in Serbia. I think all these issues should be properly addressed, thoroughly investigated, and addressed. It is extremely important. From our point of view, we saw some irregularities, but overall, we also saw the smooth conduct of the elections when it comes to the republican elections. We did not observe the local elections in Belgrade," he emphasized.

"We had numerous concerns and fears, and I just want to highlight some good news. I know people will focus on numerous questions and numerous problems, but there is also good news. For example, the issue of Kosovo has dominated the campaign a lot, but from the reports we received, there were no tensions regarding voters from Kosovo and Metohija who came to central Serbia to vote. I think it's regrettable they couldn't do that in Kosovo and Metohija, but it's good that they could vote in central Serbia and return home without any trouble and harassment, and I think that is also something to highlight," Bilcik said.

Bilcik emphasized his hope that Serbia would now be "a bit freed from extraordinary elections because constant election cycles do not allow room for political work and political decisions that are so crucial for Serbia's path towards the European Union."