Public anger mounts as university students accuse the government of shielding officials following a deadly roof collapse in Novi Sad.
Hundreds of university students staged a lively protest outside the offices of Serbia’s state television RTS, demanding justice for corruption scandals they say have endangered lives and undermined democracy.
The protests were sparked by last month’s tragic collapse of a railway station roof in Novi Sad, which killed 15 people. Critics blame shoddy renovation work linked to widespread corruption and ties to state-backed Chinese firms.
Whistling and chanting, protesters carried mock bags of cash, ridiculing claims by President Aleksandar Vu?i? that the rallies are foreign-funded attempts to overthrow his government. “This is for the president,” said one student, leaving a bag at RTS’ doors. “We demand an apology and real accountability.”
The broadcaster, often accused of pro-government bias, became the latest focus of public outrage, with demonstrators alleging it has ignored their demands. Meanwhile, the government has pledged transparency, with Vu?i? vowing to release documents related to the failed renovation.
However, mistrust runs deep. A government minister was recently released without charge despite ties to the incident, raising doubts about the investigation’s independence.
Public unrest spreads
Protests have grown since the Novi Sad tragedy, with gatherings held almost daily in cities including Belgrade. Over 40 universities have suspended classes in solidarity with the movement, which calls for sweeping democratic reforms.
