Serbian protesters pressure government over railway disaster

Tens of thousands gathered in the southern town of Nis on Saturday to honor the victims of a railway station disaster and participate in a student-led protest that poses a significant challenge to the authority of Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic.

The mass demonstrations have gained traction over the past four months following the tragic incident in which 15 individuals lost their lives due to a roof collapse at a recently renovated train station in Novi Sad, the second-largest city in Serbia.

Many citizens attribute the disaster to corruption associated with Vucic’s ten-year tenure, prompting a diverse coalition of teachers, farmers, and other workers to join the protests that initially began with a student-led blockade of university classes in December.

In response, Vucic’s administration has announced plans to initiate an anti-corruption campaign while denying any allegations of wrongdoing. At precisely 11:52 a.m., the moment the roof collapsed on November 1, thousands observed a moment of silence in the central streets of Nis to remember the victims. Hundreds of students traveled to Nis for the protest, joined by approximately 1,500 individuals on motorcycles.

Prosecutors have filed charges against 13 individuals in connection with the roof collapse. Nevertheless, the students have maintained their daily protests, demanding that authorities release documents related to the incident and ensure accountability for those responsible. They are also calling for the dismissal of charges against protesting students and an increase in funding for higher education.

To garner support, Vucic has been touring eastern Serbia, engaging with farmers and local citizens. “There will be no color revolution,” Vucic asserted during his visit to the eastern town of Majdanpek on Saturday.