Thousands of people gathered in the central Serbian city of Kraljevo on Sunday, maintaining pressure on President Aleksandar Vučić a day after he announced plans to step down within weeks and call early elections.

While many protesters welcomed the prospect of his resignation, doubts remain about whether he will fully relinquish power after more than a decade at the top of Serbian politics.

“I cannot imagine that he will step down and leave power to someone else,” said Marko Djokic, an IT expert who returned to his hometown to join the rallies.

Analysts say Vučić could attempt to retain influence by shifting roles, potentially running for prime minister while placing an ally in the presidency.

The uncertainty has fuelled continued demonstrations, with protesters determined to press for deeper structural change rather than a simple leadership reshuffle.

Protests rooted in tragedy

The unrest stems from a fatal incident in late 2024, when a concrete awning collapsed at a railway station in Novi Sad, killing 16 people. The tragedy quickly became a symbol of what many view as government mismanagement and corruption.

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In the months since, student-led protests have grown into the largest demonstrations seen in Serbia since the fall of Slobodan Milosevic in 2000.

Vučić has denied allegations of corruption linked to the incident.

Demonstrators demand change

In Kraljevo, demonstrators gathered in a central square despite high temperatures, waving Serbian flags and carrying banners reading “Students are winning”.

“We cannot go on like this, things need to change,” said Ilija Cordasic, who travelled from the northeastern city of Zrenjanin to take part.

Others framed the protests in broader terms. “This is not just a political struggle but a fight between good and evil,” said Jelena Danicic, a Serbian-language professor.

International attention

Events in Serbia are being closely watched internationally. Both the European Union and Russia have an interest in the country’s political direction, reflecting its strategic position in the region.

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The EU has raised concerns over the treatment of protesters, as well as issues around press freedom and judicial independence. Serbia is a candidate for EU membership but has yet to meet key conditions related to the rule of law and governance.

Balancing foreign ties

Belgrade has long pursued a balancing act in its foreign policy, maintaining close ties with Russia and China while also seeking closer integration with the EU.

Progress towards EU membership will depend on reforms, including tackling corruption, ensuring free and fair elections, and normalising relations with Kosovo, which declared independence in 2008.

Uncertain path ahead

For many protesters, the coming weeks will be critical. While Vučić’s pledge to step down represents a significant shift, it has not ended the movement pushing for broader political change.

As rallies continue, demonstrators are signalling that they will remain on the streets until they see what they consider meaningful reform, raising the stakes for Serbia’s political future.

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