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Massive Protests Erupt in Belgrade Against Serbian Government
Over 100,000 Protesters Demand Accountability
More than 100,000 people gathered in Belgrade on Saturday, marking one of Serbia’s largest anti-government protests in decades. The demonstrations were initially triggered by a railway station roof collapse in Novi Sad that killed 15 people, but they have since expanded into broader demands for government accountability and transparency.
Growing Opposition to President Vucic
The protests represent a major challenge to President Aleksandar Vucic, who has been in power for 12 years. Students, teachers, and farmers have joined forces, calling for an end to corruption, media suppression, and political persecution.
One student speaker addressed the crowd, saying, “We will not allow you to deprive us of our freedoms.”
Isolated Incidents of Violence
While the protests have remained largely peaceful, there have been some violent incidents. A car rammed into a column of protesters, injuring three people, and a group of men attacked a student and a university lecturer in the city center. Police have arrested 13 people in connection with these incidents.
Government Response and Resignations
The Serbian government denies allegations of corruption and has accused Western intelligence agencies of attempting to destabilize the country. In response to the unrest, the government has launched an anti-corruption campaign. Additionally, the Prime Minister and two ministers have resigned.
Calls for a General Strike
Protesters have called for a nationwide general strike in the coming days, hoping to increase pressure on the government. However, past calls for strikes have struggled to gain traction among public sector workers and businesses.
Despite the cold weather, Belgrade residents have shown solidarity with the protesters, offering hot food and drinks. The movement continues to gain momentum, posing one of the biggest challenges to the Serbian government in recent history.
“Massive Protests Erupt in Belgrade Against Serbian Government” “Massive Protests Erupt in Belgrade Against Serbian Government”