Thousands gathered in the central Serbian town of Kragujevac on Saturday to cheer a group of university students who had spent the past ten days cycling across the Balkans. The students arrived waving copies of Serbia’s Constitution, a symbolic call for the rule of law as the country prepares for an early election on Oct. 25.
Local enthusiasm for a youth‑led ticket
The crowd, many holding Serbian flags, lifted bicycles overhead and sang as the cyclists entered the city’s main thoroughfare. The atmosphere was festive, with residents dancing and chanting support for the “Students’ List,” a slate of experts, professors, teachers and other non‑partisan candidates challenging President Aleksandar Vučić’s Serbian Progressive Party (SNS).
Ilija Srdanović, a physician and university professor who leads the student‑backed ticket, told the assembled crowd that “this country must never again have a boss,” referencing Vučić’s increasingly authoritarian style of governance.
Background to the protest movement
The students’ campaign follows nearly two years of nationwide protests sparked by a tragic train‑station collapse in Novi Sad on Nov. 1, 2024, which claimed 16 lives. Protesters have demanded accountability for the collapse, alleging corruption and shoddy construction. Their demands have broadened into a wider call for governmental transparency, rule‑of‑law reforms and an end to what they describe as Vučić’s authoritarian rule.
During the protests, authorities have been accused of police violence and arbitrary detentions. Vučić has responded by accusing the students and their academic supporters of seeking to “destroy the state” under foreign influence.
Vučić’s political maneuvering
Vučić, who has served as either prime minister or president since 2014, announced he will resign the presidency on Sunday to run for prime minister if his party wins the upcoming vote. He also said he spoke with Russia’s President Vladimir Putin about a gas deal for Serbia and hosted a small farewell gathering for staff at the presidential building.
The Oct. 25 election is widely viewed as a critical test for Vučić’s grip on power. International observers note that Serbia’s bid to join the European Union has stalled under his leadership, while his administration maintains close ties with Russia and China.
What the future may hold
The “Students’ List” hopes to capitalize on public discontent and present a non‑partisan alternative focused on constitutionalism, accountability and democratic renewal. If successful, the movement could reshape Serbia’s political landscape ahead of the next scheduled parliamentary cycle.
For now, the cheering crowd in Kragujevac reflects a community eager to see change and to support the youthful energy driving the nation’s next electoral chapter.
Original reporting: Alexandria, VA News – WTOP News — read the source article.
