The councilors belonging to the ruling coalition, led by the Serbian Progressive Party (SNS) along with the Socialist Party of Serbia and the Alliance of Vojvodina Hungarians, have appointed Žarko Mićin as the new mayor of Novi Sad.

Only members of the ruling coalition were present at the session, as police and security forces prevented opposition councilors from entering the parliament building.

The police responded with force, physically pushing the councilors back, resulting in injuries among some members.

Authorities claimed that the opposition posed a “security risk” and barred them from attending the City Council meeting.

Earlier, demonstrators protesting outside the Novi Sad City Assembly hurled eggs, red paint, and toilet paper at the police and the assembly building.

The opposition criticized the selection of Žarko Mićin, calling him “unfit” for the mayoral role due to his alleged involvement in orchestrating violence against the SNS.

“I regret being elected in such a divisive atmosphere. I hope no one, neither police nor citizens, gets hurt. My aim is to be the mayor for all residents of Novi Sad,” Mićin expressed in a statement.

He emphasized the importance of “stability, de-escalation of tensions, and healing divisions within society.”

“Serbia is a democratic nation and should not be paralyzed by blockades. We need to cultivate dialogue. This space should be a venue for discussion rather than conflict. I wish to collaborate with citizens on a joint future plan, fostering debate and idea-driven competition,” Mićin stated.

City Assembly President Dina Vučinić accused the opposition of attempting to disrupt parliamentary proceedings, asserting that Mićin possesses “extensive political experience.”

Novi Sad Police Department: Five officers injured

Today, the Novi Sad Police Department reported that “five police officers sustained injuries as some protesters tried to breach the police barricade outside the Novi Sad City Assembly and are currently receiving medical attention.”

“Claims that police stopped opposition councilors from attending the assembly session are unfounded. The Secretary of the City Assembly had invited opposition councilors to partake in today’s session, which they declined, instead attempting to force their way in alongside demonstrators,” stated the Police Department.

It was noted that “without provocation, many in attendance targeted police officers with projectiles, stones, eggs, yogurt, paint, and other items,” and that police merely acted to maintain order and security for the City Assembly’s proceedings.

The department mentioned that one officer resorted to using “an irritant spray, as permitted by law, to disperse the crowd.”

The Police Department announced intentions to file criminal or misdemeanor charges against those responsible for the assault on police officials.

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