A public appeal by Ana Brnabić, President of the National Assembly of Serbia, ahead of upcoming local elections has sparked debate about the political neutrality expected from the head of the Serbian parliament, after she urged citizens to remember last year’s protests when casting their votes.
During a visit to Bajina Bašta and later Sevojno, Brnabić told residents that they should vote “according to their conscience” in the March 29 local elections, while also reminding them of the disruptions caused by what she described as “blockaders” during protests that took place across Serbia last year.
In a message published on Instagram, Brnabić said it was difficult to believe that only a year ago the country had experienced what she described as the “terror of blockaders,” referring to demonstrations and road blockades organized by opposition groups and activists.
According to her, protest organizers attempted to block roads and disrupt everyday life, including education, by preventing children and university students from attending classes.
“Remember everything you went through. Remember the violence of the loud minority, the closed schools and universities and the atmosphere of lynching — and vote according to your conscience,” Brnabić wrote in her message to voters.
Questions Over Institutional Neutrality
Brnabić’s remarks have raised questions among some political observers about whether it is appropriate for the Speaker/President of Parliament to make political appeals ahead of elections, particularly while referencing events widely used in political messaging by the ruling coalition.
As head of the legislature, the Speaker of the National Assembly of Serbia is expected to represent the institution and maintain a degree of political neutrality, even though Brnabić also serves as a senior figure within the ruling Serbian Progressive Party.
Critics argue that such public messages could be interpreted as indirect support for the ruling party, especially in the context of a heated political environment ahead of the municipal vote.
Political Context Ahead of Local Elections
The elections scheduled for March 29 are expected to serve as an important political test for the governing coalition led by President Aleksandar Vučić, whose Serbian Progressive Party has dominated Serbian politics for more than a decade.
Political tensions have remained high following months of protests and political disputes in Serbia during the past year. Demonstrations organized by opposition groups and civic activists included street protests, road blockades and rallies, which government officials frequently described as attempts to destabilize the country.
During her visit to western Serbia, Brnabić also emphasized unity and national solidarity, urging citizens to show that Serbia values peace, stability and cooperation rather than division and chaos.
“Let us show that we are a nation of love, not hatred. That we cherish peace and freedom, not violence and chaos. Let us show that we are one team and that Serbia is our family,” she wrote.
Her comments come as political parties intensify campaigning across the country ahead of the upcoming vote, which is expected to shape the local political balance in several municipalities and provide an indication of public support for the government.
