In Serbia’s parliament, a tumultuous scene unfolded when at least three lawmakers were injured, with one in critical condition, due to the chaotic outbreak of violence involving smoke bombs and flares. The session, intended for voting on increased funding for university education, was marred by opposition claims that it was illegal, demanding the formal resignation of Prime Minister Milos Vucevic and his government first.
Tensions escalated roughly an hour after the session commenced on Tuesday, with opposition members blowing whistles and displaying a banner proclaiming, “Serbia has risen so the regime would fall!” Footage from the assembly hall depicted clashes among lawmakers, culminating in flares and smoke bombs being hurled, along with eggs and water bottles, according to local media reports.
Parliament Speaker Ana Brnabic condemned the opposition, labelling them a “terrorist gang” and confirmed that three individuals sustained injuries during the incident, including a lawmaker in serious condition. This disruption underscores the severe political turmoil currently afflicting Serbia, where ongoing anti-corruption protests have significantly challenged the populist government.
Vucevic had previously resigned in January amidst unrest following the fatal collapse of a concrete structure in northern Serbia, which resulted in the deaths of 15 people. Critics attributed the disaster to widespread corruption. For Vucevic’s resignation to take effect, parliamentary approval is necessary. The opposition argues that the government lacks the legitimacy to enact new legislation in light of the political crisis.