Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić announces the creation of a new political movement, “Movement for the People and State,” as nationwide protests continue, calling for accountability after a deadly train accident.
Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić has officially launched the “Movement for the People and State”, a new political initiative aimed at uniting parties in power and their supporters. The announcement was made during a rally in Jagodina, which saw thousands of supporters from the Serbian Progressive Party (SNS) and its coalition partners attend.
Vučić’s Call for Change
During the rally, Vučić expressed his dissatisfaction with certain aspects of the current situation and emphasized the need for large-scale changes in Serbia. He stated that the movement would welcome individuals from various political backgrounds who share a common goal of strengthening Serbia.
Vučić’s remarks came at a time when mass protests are taking place across Serbia. Students have been organizing protests and blocking universities in response to the tragic death of 15 people in a train accident in Novi Sad, while other sectors, including business owners, teachers, and lawyers, participated in a general strike in solidarity.
Vučić’s Criticism of the Opposition
In his speech, Vučić also took aim at opposition parties, accusing them of “plundering” Serbia in the aftermath of the 2000 political changes and using children as political tools in the ongoing protests. Vučić condemned the use of schoolchildren in demonstrations, urging that their place is in schools rather than on the streets. He also reiterated that the government had fulfilled the four key demands of the student protesters.
Discontent and Opposition
Despite Vučić’s assurances, the protests and strikes reflect growing discontent within the country. On January 24, 2025, demonstrators continued to demand accountability from the government, with calls for a response to the Novi Sad train tragedy.
Vučić has repeatedly called on students to engage in dialogue and clarify their unmet demands, insisting that no such unmet demands exist. He further claimed that there were no reports of illegal protests or roadblocks across the country, despite widespread disruptions.
Vučić’s Stance on Russia
Addressing international relations, Vučić also stated that Serbia would not impose sanctions on Russia or any of its allies, maintaining strong diplomatic ties with Russia and China. He announced plans to discuss with Russian President Vladimir Putin regarding the U.S. sanctions on Serbia’s oil industry.
Support for the New Movement
At the rally, Vučić was joined by Serbian government ministers and Ivica Dačić, the Minister of Internal Affairs and leader of the Socialist Party of Serbia. Dačić reinforced the need for unity among the Serbian people, rejecting the possibility of a civil war and emphasizing the desire for peace and development.
The “Movement for the People and State” aims to unite individuals from various political factions, including those with no prior political affiliation, who share a vision for a stable, strong, and victorious Serbia.
Opposition to Violent Overthrows
Meanwhile, Miloš Vučević, the Serbian Prime Minister and SNS leader, voiced strong opposition to any violent regime change, asserting that there would be no “revolution” or “transitional government” in Serbia. He encouraged the public to focus on participating in elections instead of relying on mass protests.
