BELGRADE — Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic told supporters at a ruling party rally in Belgrade on Saturday that he would resign within weeks, as the country continues to face anti-government protests over the deadly collapse of a railway station canopy in Novi Sad last year.
Speaking before thousands of supporters, Vucic said he would remain president for only a few more weeks before stepping down but did not provide a reason or a specific date for his resignation.
Vucic also said he would help the Serbian Progressive Party secure public support in future elections but did not announce an election date.
Serbia has experienced regular anti-corruption protests since 16 people died in the collapse of a railway station canopy in Novi Sad in November 2024. Demonstrators have called for a transparent investigation into the incident and later expanded their demands to include early elections.
Vucic has previously accused protesters of acting on behalf of foreign interests and attempting to overthrow the government.
Saturday’s rally featured a daylong program that included music and food despite temperatures exceeding 35 degrees Celsius. Organizers also displayed a 500-meter Serbian flag, which they said weighed one tonne, and showcased humanoid robots after Vucic’s recent visit to China.
Parliamentary and presidential elections are scheduled for 2027, although Vucic has previously raised the possibility of holding early elections without setting a date.
Student groups plan to hold a separate rally in Kraljevo on Sunday to renew calls for early elections. Both gatherings coincide with Vidovdan, Serbia’s June 28 national and religious holiday.
