Fake lists against the real opponent Serbia’s local elections in ten municipalities are characterized by numerous challenges, including disputed candidate lists and intense campaigning, with the main contest expected between the ruling party and lists supported by the student movement. Despite a small number of residents in these municipalities, the elections are seen as a test for the ruling party’s declining rating, even in areas where they have historically performed well. The elections are further complicated by the emergence of fake candidate lists, intended to confuse voters and hinder opposition efforts, alongside minority lists whose presence is disproportionate to the demographics of the municipalities.

• Local elections are scheduled for March 29th in ten Serbian municipalities, marked by numerous disputes and alleged malpractices.
• The primary contest is anticipated between the ruling party and lists backed by the student movement, often in collaboration with opposition parties.
• Challenges include disputed candidate lists, intense campaigning, pressure tactics against opposition candidates, and the emergence of fake or ‘phantom’ lists.
• President Aleksandar Vučić has set a target of a 10:0 victory for the ruling parties, though he previously suggested the opposition had an advantage in some municipalities.
• Student-led lists, in cooperation with opposition parties, are seen as strong contenders in several municipalities, expressing optimism despite previous overwhelming victories by the ruling parties.
• The presence of numerous fake lists, some mimicking the names and visual identity of legitimate opposition or student groups, aims to confuse voters.
• Minority parties are active in some municipalities with disproportionately small ethnic minority populations, raising questions about their electoral strategy.
• The Serbian Liberal Party (SLS), a relatively new party with a familiar name, has reportedly fielded candidate lists in all ten municipalities.