Serbian Prime Minister Miloš Vučević has resigned following intense student-led protests triggered by the deadly collapse of a railway station canopy in Novi Sad. The announcement came on Tuesday, January 28, as public pressure escalated over alleged corruption linked to the construction of the station.
The protests stemmed from a November 2024 incident in which a concrete canopy at Novi Sad railway station collapsed, resulting in the deaths of 15 people. Outraged students accused authorities of negligence and corruption, arguing that poor construction standards led to the tragedy. The movement quickly gained momentum, demanding greater transparency and accountability from the government.
On Monday, January 27, protesters blocked key roads in Belgrade, Serbia’s capital, causing significant disruption. Farmers also joined the demonstrations, further amplifying calls for government responsibility. As tensions escalated, President Aleksandar Vučić addressed the protesters, offering dialogue and pledging substantial changes within the government.
In his resignation statement, Vučević emphasized the need to preserve stability and avoid further unrest. "I have chosen to step down to prevent further tensions and to ensure social harmony," he declared. Vučević served as prime minister for less than a year. Before taking office, he was Serbia’s defense minister and previously served as the mayor of Novi Sad from 2012 to 2020.
Vučević’s resignation marks a significant moment in Serbia’s political landscape, highlighting the increasing influence of public activism and civic movements. As the nation grapples with growing demands for reform, the government’s response in the coming weeks will determine whether further political shifts are on the horizon.