Serbian President warns against violent protests
(MENAFN) As Serbia prepares for another wave of student-led demonstrations, President Aleksandar Vucic has cautioned against violence and urged protesters to avoid actions that could lead to regret. The upcoming protests follow eight months of unrest sparked by the fatal collapse of a concrete canopy at the Novi Sad railway station.
Students have issued an ultimatum demanding the dissolution of parliament to pave the way for early elections, expecting a government response by 9 p.m. on Saturday. In an open letter, they warned that if their demands are not met, they expect Serbian citizens to be ready to engage in civil disobedience to defend their right to a free and legitimate democratic system.
Speaking to the Tanjug news agency, Vucic indicated that the government does not plan to meet the demands but is willing to listen to the protesters. He stressed the importance of restraint, emphasizing that protecting everyone, especially young people, remains his foremost priority.
“In the evening you will see angry people. Some will resort to violence because they have no other choice. Unfortunately. I... ask them not to do this. It is always better to retreat at some point than to commit madness that you will regret for the rest of your life,” Vucic said.
The protests come as calls for political and criminal responsibility continue in response to the November 2024 canopy collapse in Novi Sad, which claimed 16 lives. The student-led movement has heightened tensions between the government and universities, with the government refusing to fully compensate professors for the period when classes were disrupted due to student blockades.
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