New President of HDZ Croatia: Andrej Plenković received 5,000 more votes than Karamarko

Andrej Plenković was elected president of HDZ Croatia last night with 97,823 votes as the only candidate of the party in the elections held on the principle of "one member - one vote", reports the news agency Patria. 

Plenković replaced Tomislav Karamarko in this position, who resigned on June 21 because he failed to form a parliamentary majority, as he had promised the party. Three months ago, on April 17, Karamarko was elected president of HDZ for the second time, receiving the support of 92,276 party members, also as the only candidate.

-Thank you all. I am aware of the level of responsibility I am taking on. HDZ led the introduction of the democratic order, made a great contribution to the Homeland War. Croatia, under the leadership of HDZ, carried out reforms, joined NATO and the EU.

We will continue our work and start a new chapter. This is a demanding time for HDZ, Croatia, Europe, and the world. We need a new vision and approach, which requires bold leadership and special knowledge. We will revitalize the party. During my visits to the counties, I listened to what the members expect from the party. 

I assure all voters, members, and partners who share our fundamental beliefs that we have the strength and courage to continue. I will restore trust in HDZ. I will lead HDZ to once again become the central force of Croatia's development. There were mistakes that we must correct, hard work lies ahead, Plenković said, writes Index.