Serbian Prime Minister Milos Vucevic has resigned amid ongoing protests sparked by a deadly train station collapse last year. The resignation must be confirmed by parliament within 30 days, after which a new government or snap election may be called. Vucevic, a close ally of President Aleksandar Vucic, cited the need to de-escalate tensions as his primary reason for stepping down.
Since Novi Sad’s train station collapse in November 2024, protests against Vucic’s government have been ongoing daily, with many blaming widespread corruption and poor construction practices. Vucevic addressed a press conference, stating he would remain in office until a new cabinet is formed. He also pointed to an attack on student protesters the day before the collapse, accusing critics of exploiting the incident for political gains.
Vucevic previously served as Novi Sad’s mayor from 2012 to 2022 and was involved in the renovation work that led to the station’s collapse. Protesters have called for faster legal action against those responsible for the incident. Vucevic also resigned his mayoral post, along with former Transport Minister Goran Vesic, who has faced charges related to the collapse.
The situation highlights tensions between local authorities and residents amid calls for accountability and reform in Serbia’s political landscape.
Source: https://www.dw.com/en/serbia-protests-pm-steps-down-students-protests/a-71430793