Slovenia's center-left minority government lost a confidence vote in parliament Tuesday, possibly forcing new elections late this year or early in 2012.

Prime Minister Borut Pahor's Social Democrats received just 36 confidence votes, while 51 members of the 90-seat assembly voted against the government.

Before the vote, Mr. Pohor had warned that ousting his government would bring “the risk of political paralysis” while parliament attempts to approve the EU rescue fund for debt-strapped eurozone nations. He added that he has done his best to serve the country.

Opponents have accused Mr. Phor's government of corruption and mishandling the economy.

President Danilo Turk or the parliament now have seven days to nominate a new prime minister. If one is not elected in 30 days, early parliamentary elections must be called. The next election would not normally be due until September 2012.