Tens of thousands rally in Serbia for antigovernment demonstrations

Protesters in Belgrade Call for Early Elections Amid Ongoing Anticorruption Movement

A large crowd of protesters, led by university students, gathered in Belgrade’s Slavija Square on Saturday to demand early elections and a transparent investigation into the Novi Sad rail station disaster. The incident, which occurred in November 2024, resulted in the deaths of 16 people and sparked widespread protests against the government.

The protesters, who have been calling for an end to corruption and a more transparent government, have been met with resistance from President Aleksandar Vucic’s supporters. The president has pushed back hard against the protesters, labeling critics as “terrorists” and foreign agents.

According to reports, sporadic clashes broke out between protesters and police near the presidency building and outside a park where Vucic’s supporters have been camping since March last year. Police responded with teargas and stun grenades, while protesters set fire to bins filled with rubbish.

The protests have received widespread support from the public, with many citing concerns over corruption and government transparency. However, the movement has faced criticism for lacking a clear political platform or policies, as well as a leader or personality that can challenge Vucic’s authority.

International observers have also taken notice of the situation, with the Council of Europe commissioner for human rights criticizing Serbia’s government in a report this week. The EU has warned that democratic backsliding under Vucic could result in significant losses of European Union funding.

The protesters plan to continue their campaign, which they hope will lead to early elections and the ousting of Vucic’s right-wing populist government.

Source: Al Jazeera