A massive demonstration has taken place in Belgrade, Serbia, with tens of thousands of people coming together to protest the deaths of 15 individuals who lost their lives in a railway station collapse. The government claims the attendance at the protest was around 107,000, while organizers and independent observers have yet to release their estimates. Regardless of these variations in numbers, the demonstration is considered the largest that Serbia has ever witnessed.
The collapse of the Novi Sad station in November has led to mounting anger towards the government and President Aleksandar Vucic. The protesters blame corruption and shortcuts in construction standards for the loss of life, suggesting that the disaster reflects a decade of governance under Vucic and his Progressive Party.
Despite several resignations and Vucic’s insistence that he remains in power, the protests have only grown. Among the demonstrators are students, artists, farmers, and lawyers, demanding a functioning and corruption-free country. They assert that it is not about which political party is in power but rather the need for a country that functions properly, with institutions doing their jobs appropriately and the delivery of justice in a timely manner.
The “15th for 15” protest initiative, which has been going on for several months, is a response to the collapse. Law students are particularly vocal, calling for complete transparency and accountability regarding the renovation of the railway station. They are dissatisfied with the documentation the authorities have released, want those responsible for the disaster to be charged and convicted, and are prepared to continue protesting until their demands are met.
The students have found support from various groups, including motorbike riders and military veterans, who have joined them in demonstrations. The protests are not just limited to students; the demonstration on Saturday included a wide range of Serbian society.
However, Vucic maintains that he will not step down or give in to what he terms as “blackmail.” He views the protests as well-intentioned but sees the opposition parties as part of a “criminal cartel” with attempts to form a “fraudulent interim government.” Opposition parties, on the other hand, advocate for a “government of experts” to address the political crisis stemming from the Progressive Party’s control over the media and state institutions. They argue that free elections are not feasible under the current circumstances.
The students’ primary demand is for the truth about the Novi Sad disaster, focusing on the principles of the rule of law, respect for the constitution, and public officials’ accountability. It is unlikely that they will concede until they receive satisfactory answers and see tangible actions addressing their demands.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cx2g8v32q30o
