Belgrade, Serbia – Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic announced his intention to resign from his position in the coming weeks, paving the way for early presidential and parliamentary elections, in a move following political pressures and widespread popular protests witnessed recently.
Resignation Paving the Way for a New Political Phase
Vucic confirmed during a rally for his supporters in the capital, Belgrade, that he would remain in the presidency for a few weeks before officially submitting his resignation, stressing his continued support for the Serbian Progressive Party in the upcoming race.
The Serbian president did not set a precise timeline for the resignation or the election date, but dissolving parliament remains a mandatory constitutional condition for early parliamentary elections, marking a shift from the original schedule in 2027.
Background of the Crisis and Popular Protests
This step comes amid escalating protests that erupted following the collapse of the Novi Sad train station roof in late 2024, which claimed 16 lives and ignited widespread public anger.
Students and activists have organized successive events over the past days to commemorate the victims, demanding accountability for those responsible for the incident, while the opposition accused the government of negligence in infrastructure projects and administrative corruption.
Political Challenges Facing the Ruling Party
Student movements and opposition parties are preparing to compete against the Serbian Progressive Party in the upcoming elections, considering this phase a golden opportunity to bring about substantial change in the Serbian political landscape.
This surprise resignation places the country at a new political juncture, as political circles await the election date and the resulting balances, amidst questions about whether this move can contain the current public unrest.
