Užice Activists Freed After Massive Protests – Vučić’s Repression Under Fire!
Seven activists from Užice, detained for 30 days amid waves of civil disobedience, have finally been released! This victory came after intense public pressure and massive protests that gathered thousands from Užice and other Serbian cities. The Užice court accepted the defense’s appeal and lifted the detention, while decisions on two other activists are still pending.
Massive Protests and Roadblocks
The protests lasted for days, peaking on Sunday night when about ten thousand people shouted “Free them all!” and blocked the main road towards Zlatibor and Montenegro. Unlike previous protests, the police were absent from the streets, and the protest ended peacefully around 1 AM.
Regime Repression and Media Manipulation
The arrests and detentions are seen as a continuation of Aleksandar Vučić’s regime’s repression. Pro-regime media tried to downplay the protests, claiming only a few hundred participants, while thousands actually showed up. This repression is not isolated – hundreds have been detained, dozens beaten during protests across Serbia, especially after the tragic collapse of a canopy at the Novi Sad railway station that killed 16 people.
Student Movement and Demands for Change
The protests gave birth to a strong student movement demanding eradication of corruption, a regulated society, and a state system free from political pressure. Among the demands is the call for early parliamentary elections, which the government refuses, arguing elections are not in the state’s interest, especially during billion-euro infrastructure projects.
Legal and Political Aspects
Radovan Novaković, one of the freed activists and a lawyer, stated clearly that the arrests were political. He announced a parallel investigation to find out who ordered the arrests and who was involved. The Serbian Ministry of Internal Affairs expressed concern over the court’s decision, claiming it sends a message that attacks on police officers are allowed and unpunished.
International Reactions and Expert Appeals
Numerous international NGOs, including Amnesty International and the UN Human Rights Office, warn about the inappropriate use of force by police against peaceful protesters. The Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera published a blog in cooperation with Amnesty International, highlighting that repression in Serbia has lasted eight months, with police often using unnecessary and brutal force.
Mental Health of Citizens at Risk
Mental health experts warn that brutal repression and violence seriously undermine citizens’ sense of security and mental health. They have appealed to authorities to stop repressive measures that cause fear and insecurity in society.
Conclusion: The Fight Continues!
The release of Užice activists is not the end but the beginning of a new phase in the fight against Aleksandar Vučić’s authoritarian rule. Serbian citizens have clearly shown they will not stay silent in the face of repression and are ready to fight for their rights and freedoms. Will the government learn its lesson or continue the pressure? Time will tell.
What do you think about these protests and repression? Is this the beginning of the end for Vučić’s regime or just another episode in a long saga? Drop a comment and let the people’s voice be heard!
