A commentary published by Peščanik, authored by journalist Mijat Lakićević, argues that the case involving Serbian military analyst Aleksandar Radić reflects what the author describes as an increasingly repressive political climate in Serbia under President Aleksandar Vučić’s government.
The article draws a historical parallel with the 1928 assassination of Croatian political leaders Stjepan and Pavle Radić in the parliament of the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats and Slovenes, suggesting that Serbia has a long history of state-linked political persecution. The author stresses that the comparison is an opinion intended to illustrate concerns about the current political environment.
According to the commentary, Radić’s decision to leave Serbia was justified due to what the author characterizes as threats and institutional pressure directed against him. Lakićević argues that judicial authorities, police and military institutions have created an atmosphere of intimidation surrounding the military analyst.
Particular concern is expressed over the alleged involvement of Serbia’s Military Security Agency (VBA), which the author claims operates with limited public and parliamentary oversight. The commentary argues that such institutions possess significant influence and could pose a threat to government critics.
The article also references unresolved cases from Serbia’s recent history, including the 2004 deaths of soldiers Dragan Jakovljević and Dražen Milovanović at the Topčider military barracks, as well as longstanding questions surrounding former military intelligence chief Aco Tomić and the 2003 assassination of former Serbian Prime Minister Zoran Đinđić. The author cites these cases as reasons for public concern about accountability within state security structures.
Lakićević rejects allegations that Radić sought to undermine Serbia’s constitutional order or national security, noting that the analyst had publicly supported the reintroduction of mandatory military service, which the author says demonstrates his commitment to strengthening the country’s defense capabilities.
The commentary further claims that the legal case against Radić is politically motivated and linked to Serbia’s domestic political climate ahead of future elections.
In one of its strongest criticisms, the article argues that Serbia has become one of Europe’s leading countries for political prisoners and political exiles—excluding Russia and Belarus—asserting that many government critics have left the country out of fear of persecution. These claims represent the author’s opinion and are not independently verified within the commentary.
The piece concludes with a symbolic message of solidarity, stating that the case extends beyond one individual and reflects broader concerns over civil liberties and political freedoms in Serbia.
