Aleksandar Vučić, the dominant figure in Serbian politics for over a decade, has officially resigned from the presidency following a year of intense public pressure and student-led protests.
The administration, which has faced mounting allegations of corruption, saw public anger boil over in 2024 following the catastrophic collapse of the Novi Sad railway station roof, which claimed 16 lives. Demonstrators linked the tragedy to the government's renovation projects, sparking widespread unrest that persisted through the summer.
Despite the resignation, Vučić is not exiting the political stage. Barred by the constitution from seeking a third presidential term, he has announced his intention to run as the Progressive Party's candidate for prime minister in the upcoming parliamentary elections. To clear the path, parliamentary speaker Ana Brnabić will serve as interim president.
In a final move as president, Vučić issued pardons for 49 individuals, including students and party loyalists involved in recent unrest.
As Serbia prepares for two rounds of elections before the end of the year, the political landscape remains divided between Vučić's Progressive Party and an opposition coalition consisting of student-led movements and pro-Western factions.
Vučić leaves behind a complex legacy defined by his efforts to balance European Union aspirations with deep-seated ties to Russia and significant Chinese investment.
Tags
