The atmosphere in Belgrade is tense ahead of a major anti-government protest, as Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić’s populist administration intensifies efforts to discourage people from taking to the streets, the Associated Press reports.
The protest, scheduled for tomorrow, is seen as the culmination of months-long demonstrations against corruption in Serbia and a crucial test for Vučić’s right-wing government, which is facing growing public discontent.
The Serbian president has repeatedly warned of potential violence during the protest, while also threatening arrests in case of incidents. Meanwhile, Vučić’s supporters have set up a counter-protest camp in central Belgrade, fueling concerns over possible clashes with demonstrators.
Despite rising tensions, tens of thousands of students and other protesters from across Serbia are expected to gather in the capital.
Adding to the charged atmosphere, tractors have been parked around the park in front of the Serbian presidency, where Vučić’s supporters—including former paramilitary members—are staging their counter-protest. Authorities have also announced that the Serbian Parliament building will remain locked for the next three days for security reasons.
In a move widely seen as an attempt to prevent protesters from reaching Belgrade, the state-owned railway company, Srbijavoz, announced the suspension of all intercity train services due to a bomb threat.
Students have emerged as a key force behind the national anti-corruption movement, which gained momentum following the collapse of a concrete canopy at a railway station in Novi Sad four and a half months ago, resulting in the deaths of 15 people.
