In Belgrade and the second-largest city in Serbia, anti-government protesters blocked access to the state broadcasters' offices on Tuesday. This action kept employees out and disrupted some live programming.
Protests that started four months ago, triggered by the deaths of 15 people in November, have engaged diverse groups including students, teachers, and farmers, posing a significant challenge to President Aleksandar Vucic's ten-year rule. The recent demonstrations, which began on Monday, briefly clashed with police at the Radio Television of Serbia (RTS) headquarters in central Belgrade, resulting in injury to one police officer.
While the protests have been predominantly peaceful, tension is escalating before a major rally planned for March 15. The student leaders of the protests have advocated for peaceful demonstrations.
In contrast, President Vucic anticipated clashes, stating to RTS on Monday, "Violence will not be avoided. Plans have already been made that we know about," adding, "We know who will pelt parliament with eggs, with stones and with torches."
Protesters, dissatisfied with the state broadcaster's coverage, prevented RTS employees from entering the headquarters from late Monday, compelling RTS to relocate broadcasting to studios outside the city center. A clash briefly ensued when police attempted to enter the building without any arrests made.
Interior Minister Ivica Dacic explained, "Police are inside the building to secure it and will intervene if someone attempts to enter," clarifying the situation to reporters.
Outside the building on Tuesday, Reuters witnesses reported dozens of protesters remaining. Likewise, demonstrators blockaded the offices of the regional station Radio Television Vojvodine (RTV) in Novi Sad, halting live broadcasts.
Many Serbians link November's railway station tragedy to widespread corruption, implicating President Vucic and the Serbian Progressive Party. Responding to this, the government launched an anti-corruption campaign, resulting in the resignation of former Prime Minister Milos Vucevic and two ministers amid the protests.
Furthermore, prosecutors have charged 13 individuals in connection with the train station collapse. Meanwhile, student demonstrators are demanding the release of documents regarding the disaster and holding those responsible accountable.