Serbian president calls for ‘democratic dialogue’ with antigov’t protesters

Following more than nine months of demonstrations that have harmed his rule, Serbia’s populist leader has urged dialogue with anti-government protesters in the Balkan nation.

In a post that was accompanied by a video that Serbia shared on Instagram on Friday, President Aleksandar Vucic wrote, “Serbia must resolve its problems with democratic dialogue, not violence.”

He continued, “I invite the blockade movement representatives to a conversation and a discussion in public about visions, discuss our future plans and programs, and overall condemn the violence on our streets.”

Vucic stated in the video address from his Belgrade office that he was prepared to address audience members and other anti-government protesters, including during TV debates.

“I propose that discussion and debate be conducted with legitimate representatives, that is, those they choose,” Vucic said, “on all our televisions, on all our [internet] portals.”

16 people died last November when a roof on a renovated railway station in Novi Sad collapsed, prompting the months of protests across Serbia.

In an effort to overthrow Vucic and his party, protesters have demanded early elections and put the blame on corruption for the station disaster.

Additionally, they accuse the government of repressing media freedoms and using violence against political rivals. All of the allegations are denied by the government.

Up until earlier this month, when dozens of police officers and civilians were hurt in clashes and hundreds were taken into custody, the protests were largely peaceful.

You don’t employ an arsonist in a fire department.

“I want us to confront visions,” and we can resolve it through conversation and dialogue without violence. Vucic urged people to rebuild the nation and put it back on track after nine months.

The possibility of talks was shunned by Move-Change party leader Savo Manojlovic.

This corrupt government, according to Manojlovic, is not a place where political debate can take place, because it tramples on democracy and human rights.

You don’t employ an arsonist in a fire department.

In 2027, Vucic’s second and final five-year term as president is up for election, which is also expected to include parliamentary elections.

During an election campaign, students’ representatives said they would only debate with Vucic.