Fifth night of turmoil sparks fierce clashes across Serbian cities
Serbia’s Fifth Night of Unrest Drives Protesters into Escalated Clashes
Backstory of the Ongoing Demonstrations
Serbia has faced a continuous series of street protests since November, sparked by a tragic railway‑station collapse that broke a roof, claiming 16 lives. The incident transformed into a symbol of deep‑rooted corruption, fueling a surge of public demand for a transparent inquiry and early elections.
Day‑by‑Day Escalations
- Valjevo: Thousands gathered to protest the ruling Serbian Progressive Party (SPP). Masked youth attacked SPP facilities, setting them ablaze and later stormed riot police. The protestors threw fireworks and rocks, while officers responded with stun grenades and tear gas.
- Belgrade: Demonstrators heading toward the party’s HQ were stopped by police. Anger toward President Aleksandar Vucic’s right‑wing party intensified, giving rise to violent confrontations.
- Novi Sad: Citizens in the country’s second largest city also reported clashes, joining the nationwide unrest.
Key Incidents Fueling the Anger
Several online videos revealed police striking unarmed demonstrators with batons, sparking further dissent. In one footage, about 20 officers surrounded a young man in Valjevo, beating him while he lay on the ground. Officers denied brutality claims, accusing the protestors of attacking them.
Political Consequences to Date
- Prime Minister resigned following the protests.
- Government collapsed, yet Vucic remains defiant, refusing calls for early elections.
- Vucic denounced demonstrations as part of a foreign plot to overthrow him.
- Although the SPP still commands the government, it has reshaped its parliament.
Potential Outcomes of the Ongoing Campaign
- Early elections are likely if the public pressure continues.
- Pro‑government supporters remain masked and equipped with batons and fireworks.
- Protests could continue until the governing party is replaced by a new coalition.
