Tens of thousands of people gathered in Belgrade, Serbia, for a significant anti-government rally. This event, led by students, marks a peak in months of protests against corruption, challenging President Aleksandar Vucic’s long-standing rule.
The protests have been a response to various issues, including a tragic incident last December when a roof collapse at a railway station led to the deaths of 15 people. Many blame this disaster on corruption within the government. Following the incident, prosecutors charged 13 individuals, and the government initiated an anti-corruption campaign, resulting in the resignation of Prime Minister Milos Vucevic and two other ministers.
As the rally unfolded, demonstrators faced off against supporters of the president. Vucic, who served as prime minister from 2014 to 2017 before becoming president, had warned of potential unrest and threatened arrests ahead of the protests.
In the days leading up to the rally, Vucic’s supporters camped out in tractors at Pionirski Park, where hundreds of riot police were also stationed. Despite the tense atmosphere, there were moments of violence. Reports indicated that a car drove into protesters in the Zarkovo suburb, injuring three individuals, and police arrested the driver. Additionally, a student and a university lecturer were injured in an attack by a group of men in central Belgrade.
Despite these incidents, the mood among the protesters was largely positive. Many students were jubilant as they marched from the national parliament to Slavija Square, with hundreds of veterans and bikers showing their support along the route. The protests also saw the presence of security guards from the students’ ranks, who positioned themselves between police and demonstrators to maintain order.
On Friday, the atmosphere was electric as tens of thousands welcomed students who had traveled from across the country to join the rally. This gathering represents a significant moment in Serbia’s political landscape, as citizens express their desire for change and accountability from their government.