Footage from the legislative session showed plumes of black and pink smoke rising inside the chamber, where members of the ruling coalition had just approved the day’s agenda.
Opposition representatives rushed toward the speaker’s podium, clashing with security guards and hurling smoke grenades while dispersing tear gas. Brnabic said the parliament would continue its work despite the uproar.
The protest by opposition MPs was aimed at supporting months‑long street demonstrations against President Aleksandar Vucic’s government, which they accuse of corruption and incompetence.
The legislature had planned to increase funding for universities, one of the student protesters’ main demands, and formally accept the resignation of Prime Minister Milos Vucevic. However, additional agenda items introduced by the ruling bloc triggered the opposition’s anger.
Outside, citizens held signs calling for a general strike and “justice for the dead,” referencing 15 people killed in a construction accident at Novi Sad station. The government alleges that Western intelligence services are working to destabilize Serbia and topple the government by backing the protests.
Protests in Serbia
Launched four months ago by university students, the protests have since broadened to include farmers and teachers who claim the government fails to address widespread corruption.
Demonstrators are demanding full disclosure of contracts on the Novi Sad station project, punishment for attacks on protesters, dismissal of charges against participants, and a 20% boost in higher education funding.
The government, including the president, says that most of these demands have already been met. Students disagree with these claims.
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Source: PR24, RMF FM