Journalists from N1 who infiltrated a group of allegedly paid participants at a Serbian Progressive Party (SNS) rally on Saturday claim to have documented how individuals were recruited and compensated to attend.
Despite the footage, Serbia’s National Assembly Speaker, Ana Brnabić, dismissed the allegations, calling them “absolute nonsense” and an insult to citizens who support President Aleksandar Vučić.
According to N1’s report, individuals present at the rally were instructed to contact organizers for payment after the event. Video recordings show money being distributed to multiple participants, with sums reportedly handed out in cash.
Brnabić rejected the claims, suggesting the footage could have been staged. However, journalists insist that their reporter personally received payment from organizers, along with others in the group.
Former Fiscal Council president Pavle Petrović criticized the situation, stating that “the rules of the game are not being respected,” and warning of systemic issues where laws are adapted to suit those in power.
Observers note that similar allegations have surfaced in previous election cycles, often without legal consequences. Critics argue that institutions have failed to respond effectively, frequently citing procedural limitations instead of conducting thorough investigations.
The Agency for the Prevention of Corruption stated it would examine the case only after reviewing official financial reports submitted by political parties, including SNS.
Opposition figure Borko Stefanović claimed that public funds are being misused to create an illusion of mass support, suggesting that not all applause at such rallies is genuine.
President Vučić has not publicly commented on the allegations.
