A Show of Force: Vucic's Supporters Gather in Droves

In a dramatic display of loyalty, tens of thousands flocked to Belgrade to support Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic. Despite being a considerable turnout, estimated at around 55,000, the event paled in comparison to last month’s overwhelming anti-government protests that shook the nation.

The Underlying Fury: Ongoing Unrest and Tragedy

The recent rally followed months of turmoil stemming from a tragic incident last November when a railway station canopy in Novi Sad collapsed, claiming 15 lives. This catastrophe ignited widespread outrage, as many citizens attributed the disaster to corruption and negligent governance overseen by Vucic’s Progressive Party.

Vucic’s Defense: Rallying for Change

Promoting the event as the launch of a "Movement for the People and the State," Vucic aimed to position himself as the savior of Serbia against perceived internal and external threats. Addressing the crowd, he condemned the actions of student-led protests, suggesting they jeopardized national peace and were manipulated by foreign agents.

Blame Game: Foreign Influence and Domestic Failures

Vucic ominously hinted at shadowy foreign powers conspiring against Serbia’s sovereignty, though he refrained from naming them. His criticism extended to national broadcaster RTS, which he labeled as complicit in a supposed "colour revolution" against his regime.

From Infrastructure to Accountability: The People's Slogan

The fallout from the Novi Sad disaster saw protesters rally under the powerful slogan "corruption kills," condemning opaque procurement processes that seemed to benefit a select few while putting public safety at risk. Vucic, in a bid to quell dissent, insisted he would remain steadfast in leadership amid calls for accountability.

A Nation Divided: The Scope of Protest

As tensions rise, last month marked a historical turning point with an estimated 325,000 marchers flooding the streets of the capital, denoting it as Serbia’s largest protest in history. The relentless call for change paints a vivid picture of a nation at a crossroads, caught between unwavering support for Vucic and a burgeoning demand for reform.