Croatia: Snap mayoral election runoff held in Nova Gradiška after incumbent's resignation

Voters in Nova Gradiška, Croatia, are participating in a runoff election today to choose their mayor and deputy mayor, following the early resignation of the incumbent. The election pits former mayor Vinko Grgić against Bernardin Trnka, candidate for the Croatian Democratic Union (HDZ). Grgić, running as an independent, stepped down in March amid an investigation into suspected corrupt activities. The Croatian government subsequently called for snap elections. In the first round of voting on May 31, neither candidate secured an outright majority, necessitating today's second round. Grgić and Trnka advanced, while candidates from the Homeland Movement and an SDP-backed independent were eliminated. Voting is open until 7 p.m. local time, with citizens casting their ballots at 27 polling stations across the city. Sabina Vlaović is running as Grgić's deputy, while Bruno Bušić is Trnka's running mate. This is the only snap local election taking place in Croatia today. The outcome will determine the leadership of Nova Gradiška following a period of political uncertainty triggered by the corruption allegations against the former mayor.