Protesters in Serbia have blocked key roads and bridges, including the Gazela bridge in Belgrade, to mark 100 days since the deadly canopy collapse at a train station that killed 15 people. The blockades are part of a campaign by striking university students who demand justice over the disaster.
Critics blame government corruption for the tragedy, which is turning into a nation-wide uprising against President Aleksandar Vucic’s populist government. The student-led movement has forced the resignation of Prime Minister Milos Vucevic and his government.
The canopy collapse has become a symbol of resistance against Vucic’s authoritarian rule. Tens of thousands of people have joined daily rallies and blockades, calling for an end to corruption and democracy. Protesters carried red banners with the names of those who died and dropped white roses into the Sava River to represent “blood on the hands” of the authorities.
Vucic has accused protesters of working for foreign intelligence services, but his efforts have only fueled the movement. The protests are a result of widespread discontent in Serbia, where many citizens feel that state institutions are not working in their best interests.
The situation is further complicated by Vucic’s government control over state-run institutions and media outlets, which label any dissent as a foreign-led conspiracy. However, students and protesters have organized rallies and events to counter these claims and promote transparency and accountability.
Source: https://apnews.com/article/serbia-students-protest-blockade-bridge-vucic-fba8a86d489784b3f535e32c0001f5c6