Police and Protests in Serbia: Heroes or Bullies?
Ever wondered what’s really going down on the streets of Serbia during these protests? Some scream that the police are brutal and using excessive force, while others say the cops are just doing their job to keep order. Let’s clear the air once and for all!
Police Union Defends Its Own
Blažo Marković, head of the police union, insists the police did NOT use excessive force against citizens blocking roads. According to him, the police were trying to separate clashing groups to prevent bigger fights. “There’s always been the gendarmerie to break up fights. The police did their job; two traffic cops can’t handle everything,” Marković said.
Blockades: Political Tool or Chaos?
But it’s not just the police under fire. Miloš Vučević, president of the ruling SNS party, calls the blockade politics “fascism politics” and claims blocking intersections won’t bring political change. He compares the protesters to fascist falanges from the 1930s, accusing them of attacking other citizens and political party offices. Vučević points out that Novi Sad has about 250,000 residents, but only around 2,000 showed up to protest — not nearly enough to rattle President Aleksandar Vučić.
Police Break Up Blockades in Belgrade
Because of the blockades, police have broken up most protests in Belgrade. Some citizens and the opposition vow to resist any proposed bans on blockades, making the situation even messier. Is this a fight for rights or just street chaos?
What About the Opposition and Students?
Boris Tadić, leader of the Social Democratic Party, calls for unity among opposition, students, and citizens. He believes the police will side with the people once the opposition gains clear political articulation and a strong structure. Tadić sees this as a key step toward calling early parliamentary elections and political change.
What’s the Real Problem?
On one side, the police say they’re doing their job and not using excessive force. On the other, citizens and opposition block roads demanding change, while the government accuses blockaders of fascism and unrest. All this unfolds amid political tension and social divides.
The Bottom Line?
Has the police crossed the line or just doing their job? Are blockades a justified way to express dissatisfaction or just a nuisance for most citizens? Will the opposition unite and bring change, or will things stay the same?
We leave you with these questions. What do you think? Did the police go too far, or is Vučević right? Drop your thoughts — maybe your take will change the story!
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