Serbia's Vučić prepares for post-presidency as election talk intensifies

Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić has signaled that his time as head of state is drawing to a close, coinciding with increasing speculation from ruling Serbian Progressive Party (SNS) officials about holding elections by the end of the year. SNS leader Miloš Vučević has stated the party sees Vučić as the frontrunner for their electoral list, with potential election dates being considered for September, October, or November.

The timing and format of the elections remain uncertain, with possibilities including simultaneous parliamentary and presidential elections or separate contests. Zoran Panović of Demostat commented that Vučić has successfully rebuilt support among his base following a tumultuous period. He suggested that combining the elections might be strategically advantageous for the ruling party, potentially helping Vučić consolidate power, while also warning that it could inadvertently unite the opposition around a single presidential candidate.

Panović further argued that a parliamentary victory could allow Vučić to diminish the significance of the presidential race. He believes that fragmentation among the opposition would be detrimental to their chances. However, Demostat's research indicates that a unified front of students and opposition parties could present Vučić's bloc with its most serious electoral competition.

When questioned by pro-government media about students distancing themselves from the opposition, Vučić stated his focus remains on results and declined to comment on their internal dynamics. He accused opposition parties of attempting to manipulate young people, but asserted that students have recognized this and are refusing to be exploited. Despite Vučić's claims, Demostat's research suggests a joint student-opposition campaign could emerge as his most formidable electoral rival.