Zagreb, 12 January 2025 (Hina/MIA) — In his victory speech after securing a second term in the presidential runoff on Sunday, Zoran Milanović said that he sees his victory as recognition of his work, but also as a message to the government, urging the government to take note.

"I ask the government to hear this, this is what the citizens have told them tonight. This is not support for me. Let's not deceive ourselves, no one has the support of 75% of voters. This is only at this moment and only today!" said Milanović, who was greeted with cheers and applause from his supporters.

He began his victory speech with the words: "I'll be brief. Croatia, thank you! Thank you Bosnia and Herzegovina, thank you to all Croats around the world."

He said he views his victory in the presidential elections as a great acknowledgment and an act of trust from the people.

"Along with that, I see this as a plebiscitary message from the Croatian people about the state of affairs in the country to those who should hear it, and I ask them to listen," he said.

"There is another category of our citizens... who voted for me. Please, a big round of applause for HDZ members!" Milanović said, prompting a round of loud applause from his supporters.

According to the results from the State Electoral Commission, based on 99.66% of processed polling stations, the incumbent president won 74.88% of the vote in Sunday's presidential runoff, while his challenger, Dragan Primorac, secured 25.32%.

A total of 1,556,471 voters cast their ballots, representing 44.16% of the eligible electorate.