Snap presidential elections underway in Republika Srpska

The election is dominated by two main party candidates: Siniša Karan representing the SNSD (Alliance of Independent Social Democrats) and Branko Blanusa representing the SDS (Serb Democratic Party).

The remaining candidates are Dragan Djokanovic (Alliance for New Politics), Nikola Lazarevic (Ecological Party of Srpska), and independent candidates Igor Gasevic and Slavko Dragicevic.

Power cuts and snow disrupt polling

The election process has been complicated by severe winter weather, leading to numerous power outages and communication issues across the entity, particularly in areas struggling with snow-related network faults.

Teslic reported the biggest issues, with 18 polling stations lacking electricity (though open). In Foca, the Municipal Election Commission (MEC) lost contact with representatives at four polling stations due to power failures. Novi Grad reported eight polling stations without electricity. Problems were also recorded in Stanari, Pale, and Istocni Stari Grad (Trebevic). In the municipality of Trnovo, one polling station on Mount Jahorina was unable to open due to snow accumulation.

The head of the Banja Luka City Election Commission, Dubravko Malinic, stated that the city lacked precise data on the timely opening of all polling stations due to the lack of electricity and mobile phone signal in some areas.

Despite the challenges, MECs are reporting that voting has mostly commenced, with local authorities providing generators to ensure the electoral process can continue in areas without power.

Leading candidates cast votes

Both main contenders, Karan and Blanusa, fulfilled their civic duty this morning by voting in Banja Luka.

SNSD candidate Sinisa Karan stated after voting that the process is a "democratic and legal way for our citizens to exercise their greatest right, the right to vote." He added that the turnout is an expression of the people's desire for a "peaceful and stable Republika Srpska."

SDS candidate Branko Blanusa, accompanied by his wife, voted at the Starcevica 13 polling station. He told the media that the campaign was fair and correct and expressed hope that the election day would proceed smoothly. He urged all citizens to vote and choose the candidate who will best represent their interests.

High Representative Christian Schmidt is expected to visit polling places, with a visit to Bijeljina confirmed.