Serbian Prime Minister Resigns Amid Anti-Corruption Protests

Students march during a student-led 24 hour block on an intersection to protest the deaths of 15 people killed in the November collapse of a train station canopy, in Belgrade, Serbia, Monday, Jan. 27,

Belgrade, Serbia - Serbia's Prime Minister announced his resignation on Tuesday following weeks of massive anti-corruption protests sparked by the collapse of a concrete canopy in Novi Sad that resulted in the death of 15 people. The incident has highlighted broader discontent with the leadership of President Aleksandar Vucic, who has been accused of authoritarian tendencies despite seeking EU membership for Serbia.

The Prime Minister stated that his decision to step down is aimed at reducing tensions in the country and called for a return to dialogue to address the grievances of the protesters. The Mayor of Novi Sad will also be resigning in response to the ongoing demonstrations.

The resignation of the Prime Minister is expected to trigger an early parliamentary election, pending confirmation by the Serbian parliament. The protests, which have been ongoing for weeks, have gained momentum with the involvement of university students demanding accountability for the canopy collapse and denouncing government corruption.

In an effort to ease tensions, the President, Prime Minister, and Parliament Speaker have called for dialogue with the protesters, who have received widespread support from various segments of Serbian society.

Novi Sad Mayor also resigns in response to ongoing demonstrations.

Prime Minister resigns due to anti-corruption protests and calls for dialogue.

Resignation likely to trigger early parliamentary election in Serbia.

University students demand accountability for canopy collapse and denounce corruption.

The Prime Minister cited an attack on a female student in Novi Sad as a contributing factor to his resignation, attributing the incident to individuals associated with the ruling party. He expressed frustration over recurring incidents that escalate tensions whenever prospects for dialogue emerge.

Prosecutors in Serbia have brought charges against multiple individuals, including a government minister and state officials, in connection with the canopy collapse. However, doubts have been raised about the independence of the investigation following the release of a former Construction Minister from detention.

The protests have seen several violent incidents, including vehicles driving into crowds and causing injuries. Demonstrators have been staging daily traffic blockades across Serbia at 11:52 a.m., the time when the canopy collapsed, in remembrance of the 15 victims, including two children.