In Novi Sad, Serbia's second city, tens of thousands of people blockaded three bridges over the Danube River on Saturday in a protest stemming from a railway station tragedy that claimed 15 lives in November.
The demonstrations began after a roof collapse at the station, escalating into a nationwide crisis. Thirteen individuals have been charged by prosecutors, yet protesters, opposition groups, and many Serbians blame governmental corruption and mismanagement for the disaster.
Students from Belgrade, some traveling the 80 km distance on foot, joined locals and university students in Novi Sad for the protest. Banners with messages such as "Your hands are bloodied!" and "Corruption kills!" were raised during the rally.
Following the resignation of Prime Minister Milos Vucevic – the highest-ranking official to step down in response to the tragedy – the government and President Aleksandar Vucic have been considerably affected. Vucic, a long-standing political figure, faces allegations ranging from voter bribery to connections with organized crime, which he denies.
"Our goal is to have all our demands fulfilled so that we can finally start to live in a state of law," said protester Ana Hasinbegovic.
Despite mounting pressure, Vucic announced on Saturday that he has no intention to resign due to public dissatisfaction. He will contemplate appointing a new prime minister or facilitating elections in April.