Hundreds of students and citizens gathered on Saturday in Kragujevac and Orašac for the annual “Sretnimo se ponovo” (“Let’s Meet Again”) protest, commemorating last year’s demonstration and calling for justice and accountability in Serbia.
The event began in Kragujevac, where a student-led procession featured symbolic gestures remembering victims of the Novosadska tragedy, with chairs bearing victims’ names and white roses placed on each. Participants emphasized the need for a state governed by law, with equal accountability for all.
Jelena Kleut, addressing the crowd, said:
“One year after last year’s protest, we maintain the same determination: citizens demand a state based on law. Those responsible for the deaths of 16 people at the Novosadska railway station must be held accountable.”
She further highlighted the significance of the Sretenje Constitution, drawing parallels between past and present struggles for justice and equality.
Marija Radovanović, former secretary of the Faculty of Medicine, addressed the crowd from the stage, recounting the continued challenges faced by academic staff and students under institutional pressures. She criticized the university administration and government for actions she described as punitive, including dismissals and attempts to revoke academic titles. Radovanović concluded:
“Ruke su im krvave i značke su im krvave. Sve u Srbiji se događa zbog jedne hulje.”
Her remarks were met with chants of “Ostavke, pa robija” and “Lopovi, lopovi” from participants.
Lawyer Stanko Fuštar also spoke at the event, warning:
“Today, we may not have dahijas, but we have fear… Serbia is tired of lies, arrogance, and injustice, while the innocent are pushed into prisons.”
The protest included a run from Kragujevac to Orašac, symbolizing student solidarity and endurance. Despite adverse weather conditions, participants gathered at the monument of Vožd Karađorđe for speeches and commemorations. The official event was scheduled to conclude by 20:00.
Authorities ensured security and monitoring of the protest, with the Kragujevac Police Department noting that all measures would be taken for the safe conduct of the gathering, including photo and video documentation.
The protest also served as a charity initiative, collecting donations for children affected by cancer.
