Serbia’s Minister of Culture, Nikola Selaković, has denied all allegations against him in the ongoing “Generalštab” case, claiming that the proceedings are politically motivated and driven by biased actions from prosecutors and witnesses.
Appearing before the Special Court in Belgrade, Selaković rejected accusations of abuse of office and falsification of official documents, insisting that neither he nor his associates intended to cause harm or gain personal benefit. According to him, any potential benefit would have been in the interest of the state.
Selaković accused the prosecution of attempting to discredit top state institutions and destabilize the country politically. He further alleged that official statements from the Prosecutor’s Office were inaccurate and that sensitive information had been leaked to opposition parties and certain media outlets. He cited more than 1,500 negative media reports about him prior to the indictment as evidence of a coordinated campaign.
During his defense, the minister also criticized key witnesses, including former cultural heritage officials, questioning their credibility and accusing them of misconduct. His legal team argued that challenging witness credibility is essential to undermining their testimony in court.
Outside the courthouse, a group of students and citizens gathered in protest, chanting slogans and calling for Selaković’s resignation.
The case centers on allegations that Selaković and other officials unlawfully removed the protected cultural status of the former General Staff building in Belgrade. Prosecutors claim that procedures were bypassed and that a proposal containing false information was submitted to the government.
Despite the charges, Selaković has chosen not to invoke ministerial immunity at this stage, although the Serbian government retains the authority to grant or revoke such protection.
The trial is ongoing, and further hearings are expected in the coming weeks.
