Violence and chaos in Serbia: protests demand Vucic's resignation!

Violence and chaos in Serbia: protests demand Vucic's resignation!

In Serbia, a major political storm is currently descending on the capital Belgrade and the northern Serbian city of Novi Sad. The massive protests against President Aleksandar Vucic's policies have boiled over. In recent days there have been violent clashes that have resulted in numerous injuries. Loud LKZ 64 civilians and five military police were injured in Novi Sad as demonstrators poured into the streets to protest continued government criticism. These protests are the result of more than nine months of movement that began with the tragic collapse of a train station canopy last November, in which 16 people lost their lives.

The root of the protest is deeply rooted in the perception of corruption and mismanagement that the Vucic government denounces. During the demonstrations, participants loudly called for the government to resign and new elections. Vucic, on the other hand, vehemently criticized the protesters, calling them “thugs and murderers,” and announced that he would “cleanse” the cities of Belgrade and Novi Sad of these elements.

Extent of protests

Last Saturday there was a memorable protest in Belgrade, where the Archives of Public Meetings organization reported 140,000 participants, while the police said the number was only 36,000. Journalists and eyewitnesses agree that the official number is underestimated. The protests began with 16 minutes of silence in honor of the victims of the Novi Sad train station accident. But the peaceful minutes of silence quickly turned into heated arguments.

On the sidelines of the protests, there was also a counter-rally by Vucic supporters in Pionirski Park. In order to prevent clashes, the police were deployed with a large contingent and cordoned off several streets. Nevertheless, riots broke out late in the evening, in which six police officers and at least two demonstrators were injured. Dozens of protesters ended up in police custody.

Government reactions

President Vucic sees the protests as a challenge orchestrated by “foreign powers”. He warns of an escalation of violence and has announced legal action against the so-called “thugs”. Meanwhile, the demands of the demonstrators are clear: they demand early elections and the end of the Vucic government. Critics accuse Vucic of having close ties to organized crime and restricting media freedom, which is putting a lasting strain on Serbia's entire political landscape.

However, with strong support in his parliament, where his coalition holds 156 of 250 seats, Vucic appears determined to stay in power. The coming days and weeks could be decisive in determining whether the wave of protests in Serbia will lead to a political change or to further repression.