Thousands of protesters gathered in the southern Serbian city of Niš on Saturday in a massive student-led anti-corruption demonstration, marking the latest in a series of rallies that have shaken the Balkan nation. The protests have intensified following the fatal collapse of a train station roof in Novi Sad last year, which claimed 15 lives.
For months, the movement has increased pressure on the Serbian government and President Aleksandar Vučić, leading to the resignation of several high-ranking officials, including the prime minister in January.
Outrage Over Corruption and Negligence
The tragedy at Novi Sad’s train station in November, which followed extensive renovations, has fueled long-standing anger over corruption and the alleged lack of oversight in Serbia’s construction projects.
“I hope for justice,” said Emilija Jovanović, a 21-year-old student attending the protest.
Protesters flooded the streets of Niš, waving flags, carrying banners denouncing corruption, and blowing whistles and vuvuzelas. Makeshift stalls lined the streets, offering food and refreshments to demonstrators.
At exactly 11:52 AM, the time of the tragedy four months ago, the crowd gathered in the city’s central square and observed 15 minutes of silence to honor the victims. The somber moment was followed by chants of “Serbia has risen” and “Pump it,” slogans symbolizing the movement’s determination to continue the fight for justice.
Students Lead the Movement
University students have emerged as the driving force behind the protests, organizing marches across the country and blockading campuses for weeks. Ahead of the Niš rally, groups of students traveled across Serbia, holding spontaneous demonstrations in small villages along their route.
“What matters to me is that we have all gathered here for something greater, to support one another and to persevere until the end,” said Ivan Macović, a 21-year-old student from Kragujevac.
Government’s Response
President Vučić and other officials have responded to the protests with a mix of calls for dialogue and accusations that foreign powers are behind the demonstrations.
“A lot of money has been invested in the color revolution,” Vučić claimed on Friday while addressing his supporters in Knjaževac, about 50 kilometers from Niš.
To ease tensions, the government has taken steps to meet some of the protesters’ demands, including:
- Releasing documents related to the train station renovations.
- Pardoning demonstrators arrested at previous rallies.
- Increasing funding for higher education.
- Launching criminal proceedings against those accused of attacking protesters.
Despite these measures, the movement continues to gain momentum, with demonstrators vowing to maintain pressure until systemic changes are implemented.
Sources By Agencies
