[1] Serbia had been in a state of political crisis since the overthrow of the post-communist ruler, Slobodan Milošević, in 2001.

The reformers, led by former Yugoslav President Vojislav Koštunica, have been unable to gain control of the Serbian presidency because three successive presidential elections have failed to produce the required 50% turnout.

The assassination in March 2003 of reformist Prime Minister, Zoran Đinđić was a major setback.

The remaining candidate was the monarchist Serbian Renewal Movement–New Serbia (SPO–NS) coalition, led by Vuk Drašković.

After months of coalition talks Koštunica, Labus and Drašković's parties reach an agreement with the outside support of the Socialist Party in March 2004 which enabled Koštunica of the DSS to become prime minister.