Milan Đurić has finalized his unconditional resignation from the mayoralty of Novi Sad.

Miloš Vućević, the President of the Serbian Progressive Party and recently resigned Prime Minister of Serbia, indicated earlier today that Đurić would step down as well.

During an unscheduled press conference, Vučević elaborated that this decision followed an attack on students last night in Novi Sad, resulting in serious injuries to one female student. He stated that both he and Đurić felt a sense of objective responsibility for the incident.

“As a responsible individual and a politician, I am irrevocably resigning as the Mayor of Novi Sad. Ensuring stability, de-escalating tensions, and preventing further divisions within society are essential for the continued advancement and development of Novi Sad and its residents,” Đurić expressed, as conveyed by the Novi Sad City Administration.

He emphasized his belief that resigning is his “human and political obligation and moral duty.”

“At a time when society is experiencing significant tensions that are growing more intricate and potentially causing deeper divisions, especially following the recent violent attack on a student—who I wish a prompt recovery—I believe it is my responsibility as someone who champions dialogue and mutual understanding to resign,” Đurić stated.

He again urged law enforcement to swiftly identify the assailants and for the judicial system to appropriately penalize them.

“Submitting my resignation is not a sign of weakness or retreat in the face of adversity; it is an assertion of responsibility and allows room for rebuilding trust among the citizens. This choice reflects my profound respect for the residents of Novi Sad and my confidence in democratic processes. I aim to ease tensions and foster constructive dialogue while continuing projects that enhance the lives of all Novi Sad inhabitants,” Đurić remarked.

He expressed pride in the accomplishments of the city administration for Novi Sad and its citizens over the previous years.

Re-elected as mayor at the end of August last year, Đurić faced calls for his resignation in November from both the public and opposition parties, particularly in light of the collapse of the Novi Sad Railway Station canopy during his tenure.

At that time, it was noted that both Đurić and his predecessor, now Prime Minister Vučević, had ample opportunity to recognize their moral responsibility and resign.

According to Nova.rs, discussions about impeaching Mayor Đurić—requested by the opposition based on his political accountability for the train station tragedy—were marked by several incidents at the entrance of the City Assembly. A group of opposition MPs and numerous citizens attempting to access the Assembly building were met by a combined force of police with shields and Assembly security, leading to conflicts.

News