Mass Protests Erupt in Belgrade Calling for President Vucic's Resignation

On Saturday evening in Belgrade, tens of thousands took to the streets once more to protest against the administration of President Aleksandar Vucic. The gathering at Slavija Square, a central location in the Serbian capital, saw attendees waving both European Union and Serbian national flags, demonstrating a blend of national pride and a yearning for European integration. A poignant moment during the event included a 16-minute silence held in remembrance of the tragic collapse at a train station in Novi Sad last November that claimed 16 lives. Authorities reported an estimated 36,000 participants in the demonstration, making it a significant turnout on St. Vitus Day, or Vidovdan, a day rich in symbolism and history for Serbia. The occasion transcended mere protest; it underscored a collective call for political change in a country increasingly troubled by corruption and governance issues. Amidst the demonstrations, students issued a clear ultimatum to President Vucic: he must initiate early parliamentary elections by 9 PM on the same night, or they would resort to civil disobedience. However, Vucic had already made it clear the day prior that he had no intention of meeting this demand. Prime Minister Ana Brnabic characterized the students’ actions as 'terror,' framing the political unrest as a serious threat to public order. Following the protest's conclusion around 10 PM, tensions escalated when some demonstrators attempted to counter protest against Vucic's supporters, who had gathered at the nearby Pionirski Park. In the ensuing chaos, flares were launched towards the police, who responded with pepper spray to disperse the crowd. The presence of police was particularly pronounced around government buildings, the parliament, and the park, as officers were mobilized to maintain order amid the conflicting protests. In a press statement, Vucic alleged that foreign powers were instigating unrest in the country, casting doubts over the motivations behind the protests. He called for police restraint and warned that any form of violence would not be tolerated, asserting that 'the country will be defended and the thugs will be brought to justice.' These protests are not a new phenomenon; they have been ongoing since December, following the tragic events in Novi Sad. Demonstrators, comprised of students, opposition members, educators, and workers, have voiced their grievances, blaming systemic corruption for the disaster that killed 16 people. Their demands are not just for early elections but also for an end to Vucic’s twelve-year rule, citing allegations of connections to organized crime, violence against opposition figures, and the stifling of media freedoms. Vucic has firmly rejected the call for early elections, asserting that his coalition, led by the Progressive Party, which holds 156 out of 250 seats in Parliament, won't consider holding elections until at least late 2026. This lack of readiness to engage with the demands has further fueled discontent among Serbians, leading to the resurgence of protests and stark divisions in the political landscape. As the situation evolves, the ongoing unrest reflects a nation grappling with governance, accountability, and the yearning for a brighter future. Related Sources: • Source 1 • Source 2