Thousands of individuals converged in the Croatian capital, Zagreb, on Saturday, amplifying their voices against alleged high-level corruption in Croatia within the ruling centre-right party and advocating for the prompt scheduling of this year’s parliamentary election.

Organised by 11 opposition parties spanning the centre and left-leaning spectrum, the rally underscored mounting political tensions within the European Union member state.

Croatia finds itself on the precipice of crucial electoral milestones, with parliamentary, presidential, and European Parliament elections slated for 2024, although specific dates for domestic polls remain pending.

The opposition’s insistence on an immediate parliamentary vote is evident in their formal petition to dissolve the current parliament, propelled by a contentious dispute surrounding the appointment of Croatia’s new state attorney, Ivan Turudic, a former judge reportedly linked to individuals implicated in corruption.

Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic, a stalwart figure within the nationalist Croatian Democratic Union, has staunchly defended Turudic’s appointment despite swirling allegations.

Plenkovic’s tenure has endured for years, steering Croatia through its ascension to EU membership in 2013, marking a pivotal juncture following a tumultuous era of conflict.

Last year, Croatia further integrated into the EU’s framework, gaining access to the visa-free travel zone and the single currency market.

The palpable animosity towards the prime minister and his party reverberated through the crowd, punctuated by chants demanding immediate elections.

Davorko Vidovic, representing the Social Democratic Party, paid tribute to the late Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, highlighting concerns over the erosion of democratic liberties under Plenkovic’s stewardship.

Sandra Bencic, a prominent figure from the Mozemo (We Can) group, which holds sway in Zagreb’s municipal governance, decried the persistent brain drain afflicting Croatia, with young talents migrating to more affluent EU member states.

Bencic implored citizens to exercise their electoral rights, urging against succumbing to emigration pressures.

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