Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic has appealed for tranquility following recent, isolated clashes in Belgrade and other areas between activists associated with the ruling party and protesting students over graffiti and stickers. Speaking during a visit to the State Data Centre in Kragujevac, Vucic urged the public to remain calm. He stated that individuals should feel free to present their platforms and express their views, but cautioned against inciting violence or death.
He questioned the appropriateness of responding to aggression with force. Regarding the political landscape, Vucic announced that early parliamentary elections are anticipated within the next two to six months. He added that if his political rivals secure victory, he would offer congratulations that same evening.
He also disputed claims of electoral parity, asserting that current public opinion polls do not indicate the student movement is close in popularity to the ruling Serbian Progressive Party. The student protests, which involved blockades at over 60 faculties across Serbia during 2024 and 2025, have centered on anti-corruption demands and the push for early elections. This movement was catalyzed by a significant incident in Novi Sad on November 1, 2024, when a concrete canopy at a newly renovated railway station collapsed, resulting in 16 fatalities and one serious injury.
The protesting students have declared they will abstain from voting, opting instead to support a candidate slate composed of public figures who have no prior involvement in national politics.
Topics: #calm #call #let
