In the run-up to Serbia’s April 2nd presidential election, flamboyant joke candidate Luka Maksimovic has piqued the interest of disillusioned voters eager to shake up the system. On the international stage, Maksimovic is unique in that a) he displays some self-awareness, and b) he probably won’t win.
“Parody politician is new star in Serbia’s presidential race”
by Jovana Gec
AP
March 27. 2017
Ahead of Serbia’s presidential election on Sunday, a political parody has emerged as a true star.
His real name is Luka Maksimovic, but the 25-year-old student bidding to become the Balkan country’s next leader has won fame “” and public support “” appearing as a grossly exaggerated politician, complete with a white suit, oversized jewelry and a man bun.
Campaigning as a sleazy, loud character who makes wild promises and whose triumph is foretold by fortune tellers, Maksimovic has won over many in crisis-stricken Serbia, which has been plagued by political corruption and is eager for new faces and ideas.
Opinion polls have predicted that Maksimovic could win around 11 percent of the vote Sunday, trailing the powerful populist Prime Minister Aleksandar Vucic but surpassing several other established candidates.
This, analysts say, already is a huge success for a newcomer with scarce political experience, no infrastructure and slim funds.
“It’s just my charisma!” the communications student joked in an interview with The Associated Press. “Citizens are so anxious to see me that I must sneak in unannounced to avoid huge crowds descending on me!” Read more.