Vučić Pardons Attackers: Why Serbia Is Losing the Battle Over Justice and Protests
Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić has made a decision that has ignited outrage across the country – he pardoned four activists from the ruling Serbian Progressive Party (SNS) who brutally attacked students with baseball bats in Novi Sad. These attackers have been freed from criminal responsibility for serious bodily injuries, including the dislocation of a student’s jaw.
The Attack That Shook Serbia
On the night between January 27 and 28 this year, four SNS activists violently assaulted students peacefully protesting after the tragic death of 16 people in the collapse of a canopy at the Novi Sad railway station. Instead of standing with the victims, Vučić chose to protect the violent members of his own party.
Unrelenting Reactions
This decision sparked waves of anger and protests throughout Serbia. The civic movement BRAVO from Novi Sad condemned the pardon, stating it is a direct call for thugs to continue their violence. The Academic Plenum of Novi Sad assessed that Vučić’s move sends a message that violence against students is not only allowed but encouraged if it comes from his supporters.
Protests That Keep Going
Protests and street blockades have been ongoing for months, with dozens of locations in Belgrade, Novi Sad, Niš, and other cities. Police often use excessive force, while demonstrators employ guerrilla tactics to maintain pressure. Vučić has called protesters “imbeciles” and accused them of harassing citizens, while simultaneously protecting the violent members of his party.
What Does This Mean for Justice and Democracy?
The pardon sends a clear message: justice in Serbia is selective, and power and violence go hand in hand. While students and citizens demand accountability and respect for the law, the government shows it is ready to protect its thugs and ignore the voice of the people. This is not just a legal problem but a deep social and political crisis threatening to destroy trust in institutions and democracy.
Conclusion
Serbia stands at a crossroads. Will it continue on the path of justice and equality, or will it become a country ruled by violence and power? Vučić’s pardon of attackers is not just a scandal – it is a wake-up call for all of us. If you have something to say about this topic or want to share your opinion, feel free to leave a comment. Let the voice of the people be heard, because if not us, then who?
Slug: vucic-pomilovao-nasilnike-srbija-pravda-protesti
