Election day in Mionica, Negotin, and Sečanj was marked by a series of incidents and arrests—events that place clear responsibility on the Ministry of Internal Affairs and its leader, Ivica Dačić. As the official in charge of maintaining order, Dačić cannot escape the fact that the unrest happened under his watch.
Dačić confirmed that several violations of public order occurred, especially in Mionica, and that multiple individuals were detained. He also admitted that “people with sticks, who came from other cities,” were brought into the area. However, he offered no explanation for how organized groups were able to enter election zones and move freely, despite the ministry’s duty to ensure controlled, safe conditions on such a sensitive day.
Instead of addressing the security failures, Dačić shifted attention to early, unofficial results sent by SPS members, highlighting that their joint list with the SNS in Negotin had secured around 70% of votes. His focus on political success rather than the failures of police oversight raised further doubts about priorities within the ministry.
Parliament Speaker Ana Brnabić followed the same pattern, blaming the opposition for provoking disturbances. Yet neither she nor Dačić explained why the police—Dačić’s police—allowed tensions to escalate, nor why preventive measures were insufficient in areas known for election-day sensitivities.
The facts remain clear:
- Incidents occurred.
- Organized groups arrived from outside municipalities.
- Public order was repeatedly violated.
- Detentions took place throughout the day.
All of this falls directly under the responsibility of the Ministry of Internal Affairs.
As long as Dačić continues to deflect and provide partial explanations, concerns about election security and police independence will only deepen.
