The Belgrade branch of the Srbija Centar (SRCE) party has issued a scathing statement accusing the Serbian Ministry of Internal Affairs (MUP) of abandoning its duty to protect public peace and order in favor of guarding illegal structures in Pionirski Park.
The park, located in the heart of Belgrade, currently hosts a pro-government camp and event series titled “Serbia Wins” or “Evening of Energy and Music.” According to SRCE, the space has been colloquially dubbed “Ćacilend” by the public and is being used as a strategic point for political intimidation.
“Occupation” of Public Space
SRCE officials questioned the legal basis for the police presence at the site, asking the MUP on whose orders they are “assisting in the occupation of Pionirski Park.”
“Is the role of the police to protect citizens from crime, or to guard privileged groups who have declared themselves above the law?” the statement asked. “Pionirski Park belongs to all citizens, not to favored groups using it as a training ground for intimidation and political marketing.”
Allegations of a “Paramilitary Camp”
The party’s criticism went beyond the illegal use of public land, alleging that “Ćacilend” has evolved into a base for aggressive pro-government elements.
- Tactics of Fear: SRCE claims the camp serves as a “strategic point for causing incidents and intimidating dissenters.”
- Violent History: The statement alleges that the camp houses individuals who have previously physically attacked students, citizens, and journalists.
- “Reserve Army”: The party accused President Aleksandar Vučić of using the camp as a “reserve army” prepared to respond to legitimate citizen protests with state-sanctioned force and staged conflicts.
Constitutional Concerns
The Belgrade board of SRCE highlighted that by protecting this camp, the police are assisting a group that has actively prevented prosecutors and state authorities from performing their duties. They argue this constitutes a direct violation of the Constitution of Serbia.
As of Monday afternoon, the Ministry of Internal Affairs has not responded to the allegations or clarified the specific legal mandate for the heightened police security surrounding the Pionirski Park structures.
