Slovenia’s ruling Freedom Movement, led by Prime Minister Robert Golob, was narrowly ahead in the March 22 general elections after 99.81% of votes were counted, setting the stage for complex coalition negotiations.

According to near-final results of the state elections commission, the Freedom Movement secured 28.6% of the vote, just ahead of the opposition Slovenian Democratic Party (SDS) led by Janez Jansa, which won 28.04%. The alliance of New Slovenia (NSi), the Slovenian People’s Party (SLS) and Fokus followed with 9.31%.

Other parties crossing the threshold included the Social Democrats (6.70%), the Democrats (6.79%), Resni.ca (5.55%) and Levica (5.55%). The final composition remains subject to minor changes as counting concludes.

Based on current projections, the Freedom Movement would secure 29 seats in the 90-member parliament, followed closely by SDS with 28, RTV SLO reported. The NSi–SLS–Fokus alliance is expected to win nine seats, while the Social Democrats and the Democrats would each take six. Resni.ca could gain five seats, with Levica (the Left) and Vesna also projected to secure five mandates.

Voters chose from 1,185 candidates competing across 17 lists, 15 of which ran in all eight electoral units. According to data from the State Electoral Commission, nearly 1.7mn voters were eligible to cast ballots. Voters turnout stood at 69.02%.

The close race reflects a deeply divided electorate and points to a fragmented parliament, where no single party or bloc is likely to command a majority.

Addressing supporters after polls closed, Golob thanked voters for their participation. “It was really tense, but first of all, a big thank you to all those who went to vote, all the voters. You cast your vote for democracy, not just for freedom, for democracy,” he said, RTV SLO reported.

Looking ahead, the prime minister acknowledged that difficult coalition talks lie ahead, but stressed there would be limits to compromise. “I say here and now that in the next term we will do everything to make this future better for everyone, all citizens. There is only one thing that we will not negotiate about — because tough negotiations await us. But we will not negotiate about one thing. Our sovereignty — we will not let foreigners rule here,” he said.

With results still being finalised, attention is now turning to potential coalition configurations, as Slovenia faces the prospect of protracted negotiations to form a new government.