Vučević and Vučić: Biker Ride, Vidovdan Protests, and Threats of Violence in Belgrade
Belgrade is currently at the heart of political and social tensions that keep escalating. While Miloš Vučević, president of the Serbian Progressive Party and advisor to the president on regional affairs, embarks on a biker ride from Novi Sad to Belgrade to join the students’ Vidovdan literary evening, Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić warns of possible violence during the upcoming protests.
Biker Ride as a Political Statement
Vučević announced on his Instagram that he will join Novi Sad bikers on a ride to Belgrade, where he will participate with students in the Vidovdan literary evening at Pionirski Park. He emphasized that it is an honor and pleasure to be with the youth and to jointly protect Serbia. He declared that Vidovdan is a sacred day that Serbia loves and preserves, and that Serbia will ultimately prevail.
This ride is not just an event — it is a clear signal of political strength and connection of the authorities with the youth, as well as an attempt to showcase state stability and unity ahead of turbulent times.
Vučić’s Warnings of Violence at Protests
On the other hand, President Vučić has warned on Instagram and in the media that the announced student protests, scheduled in Belgrade, will likely be accompanied by violence. He appealed to young people not to do “stupid things” they will regret for life but simultaneously stated he expects violence between September 15 and October 15.
Vučić also awarded Vidovdan honors to deserving individuals and institutions, further emphasizing the importance of the holiday and state symbols amid political tension.
Student Protests and Literary Evening — Two Faces of Vidovdan
While the government tries to portray Vidovdan as a day of unity and patriotism, students in Belgrade organize a protest called “We See Vidovdan.” The protest starts at Slavija Square with a moment of silence for 16 victims of a canopy collapse at the Novi Sad railway station, followed by the national anthem, student speeches, and the presentation of red carnations. The protest has clear demands for the Serbian government, including calling for early elections.
Simultaneously, a literary evening will be held at Pionirski Park, featuring well-known figures from culture and history, highlighting the deep divisions in society.
Removal of Tents and Preparations for Protests
Ahead of the protests, part of the tents in front of the National Assembly building was removed, and a stage is being set up for the literary evening. About 15 white tents remain at Nikola Pašić Square, with municipal services and police present. The “We Won’t Give Up Serbia” camp, established in April, remains active but under pressure from authorities.
What’s Happening in Belgrade?
Belgrade is on the edge of an explosion. On one side, the government tries to show strength and stability through biker rides and state ceremonies. On the other, students and citizens take to the streets with demands for change, while President Vučić openly warns of violence. All this happens ahead of important political events and amid deep societal divisions.
If you think this is just another political show, think again. This is a real test for Serbia — will unity prevail, or will the gap between the government and the people deepen?
So, what about you? Are you for the biker ride or the student protest? Or maybe both? Drop a comment, let the people’s voice be heard — because in Serbia, like in a biker ride, speed and direction matter!
