Tens of thousands of demonstrators gathered in Serbia's capital, spurred by anger over a deadly railway station incident. The protests highlight widespread discontent with government accountability and corruption.
Massive Anti-Government Demonstration Erupts in Serbia Following Tragic Railway Station Collapse
Massive Anti-Government Demonstration Erupts in Serbia Following Tragic Railway Station Collapse
An unprecedented turnout of protesters in Belgrade seeks justice after the loss of fifteen lives due to government negligence in a railway station collapse.
Thousands of Serbians filled the streets of Belgrade on Saturday, as citizens united in protest against their government in the wake of a catastrophic railway station collapse that claimed the lives of fifteen individuals last November. While the Serbian government estimates the attendance at about 107,000, independent observers point to a possibly larger turnout, marking this protest as one of the largest in the country's history.
The collapse of the station in Novi Sad has intensified public outrage directed toward President Aleksandar Vucic and the ruling Progressive Party, who are accused of negligence and corruption that led to the tragedy. Demonstrators argue that this incident epitomizes years of mismanagement under Vucic’s administration, which has been criticized for prioritizing development over safety.
"We need a country that functions effectively," voiced protester Jana Vasic, a law student amid the sea of demonstrators. "It's not about political parties; it's about having institutions that uphold justice." Key gathering places in Belgrade, including Republic Square and in front of the National Assembly, were filled with various groups from students to farmers, all demanding accountability from officials.
In the protest's lead-up, a bold display of unity was exhibited by motorcyclists and tractor drivers, representing different sectors of society in a stand against government inaction. The student-led movement has called for full transparency regarding the station’s renovations, and they are pressing the government to release all relevant documentation while seeking justice for those responsible for the deadly collapse.
Despite some political resignations in the aftermath of the incident, including the announcement of Prime Minister Milos Vucevic's resignation, major reforms have yet to materialize, highlighting ongoing dissatisfaction. Protesters remain undeterred, asserting their commitment to peaceful demonstrations until their demands are fully met, insisting they're not seeking mere assurances but concrete actions.
As Vucic defiantly states he will not succumb to pressure, the resolve of Serbia’s citizens grows clearer—a demand for the government to uphold the rule of law and ensure accountability, as posited by legal experts amid the turmoil. With no signs of easing tensions, the resolve of the protesters may signal a shift in Serbia's political landscape moving forward.
