Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić has drawn sharp criticism for attending the Special Anti-Terrorist Unit (SAJ) Day celebration in Batajnica on December 18, a move some see as overstepping constitutional and legal boundaries. Critics argue that Vučić’s presence signals an attempt to politicize and control the elite police unit.
According to reports, the official invitation list excluded former SAJ commander Spasoje Vulević, who led the unit for 20 years, along with other former commanders. Vučić, whose role is largely ceremonial regarding the Ministry of Interior (MUP), not only attended but gave speeches and issued directives—actions seen as contrary to the law and standard protocol.
“By calling and instructing SAJ members directly, Vučić bypassed the established command structure and demonstrated a disregard for legal hierarchy,” the report states.
The controversy also surrounds the appointment of Igor Žmirić as SAJ commander, a figure previously dismissed from the unit. Many insiders expected Vladan Mirković, a long-standing member of SAJ, to be promoted instead. Observers argue that Vučić’s choice was politically motivated, ensuring a loyal ally at the unit’s helm. Žmirić has previously been involved in crackdowns on student protests, actions that were documented in media coverage.
Former commander Spasoje Vulević has publicly criticized Vučić’s approach, noting that his professional and moral standards conflicted with illegal orders issued by the president. Critics also point out that the regime’s media, controlled by Vučić, has sought to discredit Vulević, partly because his children participated in anti-government protests.
Observers warn that these actions could transform SAJ from a professional counter-terrorism unit into a political tool, undermining its operational integrity and independence.
