Serbia has set April 3 for a presidential election, twinning the vote with parliamentary and local balloting on the same day.
"I want the campaign to take place in a democratic and fair atmosphere and to contribute to the stability of Serbia, the future of Serbia and all citizens," acting parliamentary speaker Ivica Dacic said on March 2 in announcing the date.
Dacic added that he expects President Aleksandar Vucic to remain in his post until the end of May, regardless of the outcome of the April 3 vote. Candidates have until March 12 to submit their papers, he said.
Last month, Vucic called a parliamentary election after dissolving the legislature. The capital, Belgrade, is also holding an election on April 3.
His ruling Serbian Progressive Party (SNS) is expected to win the general election, according to recent public opinion polls, despite gains made by opposition parties over issues such as the environment and inflation.
Vucic has been criticized by some rights activists for pulling most mainstream media under his control.
