Serbia’s parliament erupted into chaos on Tuesday as opposition lawmakers clashed with government supporters, leaving at least three lawmakers injured, including one in critical condition. The protests are a response to the fatal collapse of a canopy at a railway station in November, which sparked mass demonstrations demanding justice and accountability.
The incident led to the resignation of Prime Minister Milos Vucevic in January, but his departure has not quelled the uprising. Opposition parties claim that the ruling majority is trying to push through dozens of decisions without confirming Vucevic’s resignation, citing it as an attempt to override democracy.
Lawmakers from the opposition parties ran out of their seats, scuffled with security guards, and hurled smoke grenades and tear gas. The scene was marred by eggs and water bottles being thrown, as hundreds of opposition supporters rallied outside the parliament building.
Serbian media described a “clash” between lawmakers and protesters, while protesters stood in silence to honor 15 people killed by the railway station roof collapse. Protest leaders have called for a major rally in Belgrade on March 15, urging the government to take responsibility for the tragedy.
The government has attempted to downplay its role in the collapse, but critics argue that it is an example of institutional corruption. As parliamentarians voted on a law to increase university funding, opposition parties insisted that they should confirm Vucevic’s resignation first. The dispute highlights ongoing tensions between the government and the opposition, with some claiming that Western intelligence agencies are backing the protests.
The situation remains volatile, with protests continuing across the country despite the government’s attempts to quell them.
Source: https://www.foxnews.com/world/serbian-lawmakers-throw-smoke-grenades-tear-gas-parliament