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Serbia Rally: Vucic Supporters Gather in Belgrade Amidst Ongoing Protests
Thousands of supporters of Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic convened in Belgrade for a rally, following months of demonstrations across the nation. The gathering aimed to showcase support for the president amidst public discontent and allegations of corruption linked to infrastructure projects.
Lower Turnout for Vucic’s Rally Compared to Previous Protests
A monitoring organization estimated that approximately 55,000 individuals assembled in front of the National Assembly for the pro-government demonstration. While a significant number, this turnout was notably smaller than the massive anti-government protest held the previous month, despite efforts to mobilize Vucic’s base, including supporters from neighboring countries.
Public Anger Fueled by Novi Sad Tragedy and Corruption Claims
Serbia has experienced persistent demonstrations since November, triggered by the tragic collapse of a railway station canopy in Novi Sad, which resulted in 15 fatalities. This incident ignited widespread public outrage and accusations of corruption against Vucic’s Progressive Party. Critics allege that negligence and compromised construction standards stemming from corrupt practices were contributing factors to the disaster.
Vucic Accuses Protesters of Destabilizing Serbia
President Vucic presented the Saturday rally as the inauguration of a “Movement for the People and the State,” declaring its purpose to “rescue” Serbia from destructive forces. In his address to the assembled crowd, he urged prosecutors to prioritize restoring order and peace within the country.
Claims of Foreign Interference and Attacks on National Broadcaster
Vucic asserted that the student-led demonstrations posed a threat to Serbia’s stability and peace. He accused protest participants of being financially supported by “foreign intelligence agencies,” without providing specific evidence to substantiate these claims. Furthermore, Vucic criticized the national broadcaster RTS, labeling it a “key participant” in a purported attempted “colour revolution,” intensifying concerns about media freedom and government pressure on journalistic institutions.
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Infrastructure Project Under Scrutiny Following Novi Sad Incident
The Novi Sad railway station collapse has focused scrutiny on the Progressive Party’s decade-long governance, particularly as Vucic had been closely associated with the station’s prior renovation. The project was promoted as a flagship achievement of the government’s infrastructure program, specifically the high-speed rail line connecting Belgrade to Budapest.
“Corruption Kills” Slogan Reflects Public Frustration
Demonstrations following the Novi Sad tragedy adopted the slogan “corruption kills,” reflecting public sentiment that alleged opaque procurement procedures in government infrastructure projects have unjustly benefited select contractors while jeopardizing public safety. Protesters contend that these practices prioritize private gain over essential safety standards and accountability.
Persistent Protests Despite Government Assurances
Despite some resignations in the wake of public outcry and President Vucic’s declarations of remaining in power, the protests have continued to escalate. The scale of public dissent culminated last month with a massive demonstration in the capital.
Record-Breaking Anti-Government Protest Attracts Hundreds of Thousands
Independent monitors estimated that at least 325,000 people, possibly more, participated in the prior month’s anti-government demonstration in Belgrade. This massive turnout is considered Serbia’s largest protest in history, signifying a significant wave of public opposition and demand for governmental accountability and reform.