Belgrade, Serbia — In response to allegations of widespread vote irregularities during the recent general election, hundreds of opposition supporters gathered outside the city council building on Sunday. However, they were met with tear gas as police attempted to prevent their entry.
Despite the increasing tensions, Vucic emphasized the government’s intention to handle the situation with restraint. “We are doing our best with our calm and mild reaction not to hurt demonstrators,” he stated.
Inside the city government building, riot police took shelter behind barricades, deploying tear gas as opposition protesters pounded on windows and chanted slogans such as “Open the door” and “Thieves.” Some even drew comparisons between Vucic and Russia’s leader, calling him “Vucic is Putin.”
The opposition leaders, such as Nebojsa Zelenovic from the Serbia Against Violence alliance, claimed that police presence was overwhelming in downtown Belgrade, with officers even positioned on rooftops. Notably, this area houses important institutions like the national parliament and the presidential headquarters.
Election Results in Serbia Stir Controversy
Belgrade, Serbia – The recent parliamentary and city elections in Serbia have sparked controversy amidst allegations of irregularities and voter manipulation. Although there have been no immediate reports of injuries, the Serbia Against Violence party claims it was deprived of victory, particularly in Belgrade.
A observation mission conducted by international rights watchdogs revealed multiple discrepancies, including instances of vote-buying and ballot box tampering. The observers also raised concerns about unfair conditions for opposition candidates, citing media bias, the misuse of public resources, and the overwhelming influence of the president during the campaign.
In response to these allegations, Nebojsa Zelenovic, one of the leaders of the alliance, expressed determination to continue their fight for justice. However, tensions in Serbia have escalated as a result of the election outcomes, with the country torn between its aspirations for closer relations with Russia and its pursuit of European Union membership.
In a letter addressed to EU institutions, officials, and member nations, Serbia Against Violence made it clear that they would not recognize the election results. Furthermore, they called upon the European Union to follow suit and initiate a thorough investigation into the matter.
This unexpected turn of events has unsettled Serbia and raised questions about the future direction of the nation’s political landscape. As the nation grapples with these uncertainties, the eyes of both its citizens and the international community remain focused on how this dispute will unfold.