Today, Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić announced that all student demands would be addressed within a few days at most. This includes the publication of all documentation related to the reconstruction of the state-owned Novi Sad Railway Station and the pardoning of activists who were arrested during recent protests.

During a press conference at the Palace of Serbia, Vučić confirmed that all relevant documents regarding the station’s reconstruction, following the tragic canopy collapse that resulted in one fatality on November 15, 2024, will soon be made available. This aligns with the 24 points specified by the Faculty of Civil Engineering in Belgrade, which were previously missing from the documentation.

He further revealed that 925 additional documents were released today, with the process of making the remaining documents public still underway.

Addressing the documentation that pertains to contracts with contractors and subcontractors, he noted that these documents were not classified as secret, raising questions about why the Government had not published them sooner.

Vučić estimated that 82 subcontractors were involved in the reconstruction and assured that the contracts would be disclosed by tomorrow. However, this information had previously not been released due to its lack of relation to ongoing criminal proceedings concerning the canopy collapse, apart from possible other criminal matters.

“The police have conducted searches at all subcontractors and, following legal protocols, have seized all relevant documentation. There are still seven contracts with subcontractors that need to be addressed,” Vučić stated.

He also mentioned that the state lacks certain documents, such as the minutes from the final settlement and completion statements regarding the foundation and structural aspects of the building, explaining that work was reported on October 16, 2024, and the accident happened on November 1, resulting in no completion documentation being available.

“We submitted everything we possessed; there are no further documents left to submit,” Vučić asserted, believing this satisfies the first student request.

On the second request regarding criminal charges against those who assaulted students, professors, and citizens during protests, he indicated that 37 criminal charges have been initiated under expedited procedures.

Out of these, 26 cases are from incidents in Belgrade, eight in Novi Sad, two in Šabac, and one in Vršac.

“I believe that there was just one case involving public officials, specifically a councilor in New Belgrade, and that has already been resolved,” Vučić added.

The third student demand concerns the dismissal of criminal charges against 13 activists and citizens involved in the protests. Vučić stated that the state has awaited the prosecutor’s office to drop the initially filed charges concerning alleged criminal offenses.

“If no other solution presents itself, following legal and constitutional procedures, I will be prepared to sign a decision to pardon those seeking it, as I anticipate there will be individuals who may not want this. I aim to accomplish this by Wednesday,” Vučić expressed.

He mentioned that there remains a request regarding misdemeanors, emphasizing that this falls under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, which he believes could be rectified by filing petitions with the courts to fully comply with the third student demand.

Regarding the demand to increase the budget for higher education by 20%, Vučić highlighted that students have revised this to incorporate a salary increase for professors and a 50% reduction in tuition fees, which the state has also committed to fulfilling.

He estimated the total cost to the state would be around 72 billion dinars.

“We have succeeded in addressing everything they put forth and have decided to act accordingly,” Vučić stated.

He warned that the ongoing protests could persist for another year, two, or more, but emphasized that the state has chosen to take these actions for the sake of students returning to education and for state stability, as the situation’s impact has progressively affected the economy and foreign investments since the year’s beginning.

He anticipates a significant shift in ministerial positions.

Vučić revealed his intention for an “urgent and significant” restructuring of the Serbian Government, expecting more than 50% of current ministers to be replaced.

He informed reporters at the Palace of Serbia that the challenging times have exposed which government members are willing to contribute and which are not.

According to him, the foremost task of any government should be to enhance the living standards of its citizens.

“We seek dialogue and communication with the opposing side”

Vučić mentioned that discussions with representatives of the Serbian Government revealed a mutual interest in hearing the students’ perspectives, emphasizing the need for dialogue. He remarked that the current state of affairs in Serbia is unfavourable for everyone.

After the canopy collapse at the Novi Sad Railway Station, numerous accusations were directed at state authorities, calling for a change in government and irresponsible statements that fostered an unhealthy atmosphere in Serbia.

“Throughout these three months, we endeavoured to demonstrate empathy and provide assistance to affected families. We aimed to identify the tragedy’s causes. The prosecution has brought 13 indictments against those responsible, mirroring the actions taken in Turkey regarding fatalities in a significant fire,” he stated.

He also disclosed that he had recently requested government representatives to clarify what the opposing side demands.

“Some assert that not everything has been satisfied; others maintain that all requests have been addressed…” Vučić remarked.

Vučević extended invitations for a discussion meeting

Serbian Prime Minister Miloš Vučević invited all rectors, deans, professors, and students from universities and faculties in Serbia to convene at the Serbian Government for discussions surrounding student demands, which he claims have been fully addressed.

“Let’s collaboratively examine these pivotal issues—these four key demands—and ensure they understand our earnestness and commitment to fulfilling them,” Vučević conveyed to reporters at the Palace of Serbia.

He reiterated that the government is always open to discussion and that representatives are prepared to engage.

“I reject the notion that it’s too soon or too late for negotiations; time for dialogue is essential, and it can benefit the entire society. That’s the expectation of all citizens—from the government and from those coordinating the protests,” he elaborated.

He assessed that Serbia requires calming tensions, deploying a rational approach, reducing emotional responses, minimizing harsh rhetoric, and fostering responsibility.

“The government is also willing to engage with anyone authorized by the students to discuss matters on their behalf. I am eager for such discussions, regardless of their complexity, as they represent the sole potential resolution to the current predicament. There are no winners; the state of Serbia must emerge victorious,” he asserted.

Brnabić: The Parliament will convene to vote on confidence in both the Government and myself

Serbian Parliament Speaker Ana Brnabić announced that the agenda for the upcoming parliamentary session on Wednesday will include discussions regarding a vote of confidence in the Serbian Government, as previously requested by the opposition.

She confirmed that the agenda will also encompass deliberations on whether MPs trust her and if they are satisfied with her leadership in the parliament.

In addition, the agenda will feature discussions on a bill for affordable housing loans for young people, a bill proposing restrictions on interest rates, and the ratification of a free trade agreement with Egypt, among other topics.

Brnabić criticized opposition MPs who announced a blockade of parliamentary activities, asserting that it is something she would refuse to permit.

Vučić: We will pursue an advisory referendum regarding confidence in the president

Vučić stated that the government will push for an advisory referendum to assess his continued presidency, emphasizing the importance of reviewing the legitimacy of state officials.

“Ana (Brnabić) will advocate for signature collection for the referendum. We have mutually agreed that she will encourage her opposition colleagues to support this initiative with minimal legislative backing. We will manage the remaining logistics,” Vučić told reporters at the Palace of Serbia.

Numerous opposition parties previously criticized this proposal, asserting that it contradicts the Constitution.

When asked if he feared a potential loss of power, Vučić responded by claiming that the Serbian Progressive Party (SNS) commands support from 48.7% of citizens, which would ostensibly secure more than 55% of the parliamentary seats in the next elections.

He added that he was pleased with the turnout at a recent rally held in Jagodina, stating that as many as 46,000 to 47,000 people attended. “We are aware of how many trains and buses brought them here. Those who came remained until the conclusion; no one left prematurely. People are anxious and concerned for Serbia,” Vučić said.

In contrast, some pro-government media outlets claimed that the rally attracted 100,000 people, while the Archive of Public Gatherings estimated attendance at around 14,000.

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