Following the tragic collapse of the railway station's canopy in Novi Sad, which resulted in 15 casualties, authorities have initiated arrests and investigations amidst widespread protests. The public outcry centers on allegations of corruption and mismanagement, with calls for higher officials to resign.
Arrests Made in Aftermath of Novi Sad Railway Station Collapse
Arrests Made in Aftermath of Novi Sad Railway Station Collapse
Protests sparked in Serbia after a tragic railway station disaster have led to arrests as citizens demand accountability.
Protests in Serbia have escalated into a cry for justice after the recent collapse of a railway station canopy in Novi Sad that resulted in the death of 15 individuals. In response to mounting public anger, prosecutors have started questioning 11 individuals linked to the incident at the newly-renovated station, which has transformed into the focal point of civic unrest in the country.
Novi Sad has been enveloped in mourning, with protestors taking to the streets under the demanding slogan of "corruption kills." Over 20,000 participants have rallied, emphasizing a perception that the government's opaque processes for awarding infrastructure contracts have benefited a select few contractors while compromising public safety.
Among those arrested is Goran Vesic, the former construction minister, who stepped down shortly after the incident but has denied responsibility for the tragedy. His resignation coincided with a wave of protests that saw citizens question the accountability of those in power. Despite his claims of innocence, Vesic has positioned himself as a cooperating witness, asserting his willingness to assist investigators.
The somber mood over the railway disaster intensified following a televised address by Serbia President Aleksandar Vucic, in which he condemned the negligence that led to these fatalities. However, his close ties to the station—having inaugurated it in 2022 as part of a significant infrastructure project connecting Belgrade to Budapest—have placed him in a precarious position amid the backlash.
Political opposition has criticized Vucic’s government, attributing the station collapse to systemic issues of nepotism and a culture of impunity. Biljana Djordjevic, co-leader of the Green-Left Front, articulated sentiments of pervasive fear among the populace, reflecting concerns that their safety is compromised under the current administration's governance.
Despite the initial arrests, protesters remain adamant, calling for further resignations including that of Prime Minister Milos Vucevic, along with current officials. As the demands for accountability gain momentum, the government faces a crucial test of public trust and leadership in the aftermath of this tragedy.
