Serbian Police Deploy Tear Gas Amidst Protests Over Controversial Elections
Serbian police deploy tear gas amidst protests over controversial elections as thousands gathered to demand the annulment of parliamentary and local elections held a week ago.
Author:Dexter CookeReviewer:Hajra ShannonDec 25, 20237K Shares305.2K Views
Serbian police deploy tear gas amidst protests over controversial electionsas thousands gathered to demand the annulment of parliamentary and local elections held a week ago.
Allegations of unfair practices have marred the elections, which saw the populist Serbian Progressive Party (SNS) win a sizable victory, prompting international observers to express concern.
Election Results Spark Controversy
Preliminary results from the state election commission revealed that the SNS won 46.72% of the votes in the snap parliamentary elections.
However, an international monitoring mission raised flags regarding media bias, the improper influence of President Aleksandar Vučić, and voting irregularities such as vote-buying.
President Vučić dismissed the allegations on Sunday, labeling them as lies propagated by the political opposition. He went on to suggest that the unrest was instigated from abroad, addressing the nation during the protests outside Belgrade town hall.
Referring to the demonstrators as "thugs," Vučić asserted that their attempts would not destabilize the state, emphasizing, "This is not a revolution."
Clashes Erupt Outside Belgrade Town Hall
As the protests intensified, riot police barricaded themselves inside Belgrade’s town hall, firing tear gas to disperse the demonstrators who attempted to storm the building.
Protesters, chanting phrases like "open the door" and "thieves," pelted the town hall with eggs. The unrest continued into the night, with police making several arrests.
The centre-left opposition alliance Serbia Against Violence secured the second position in the elections with 23.56% of the votes. The Socialist Party of Serbia claimed the third spot with 6.56%.
Serbia Against Violence has contested the results, alleging fraudulent activities, especially in Belgrade, where reports surfaced of non-residents being recruited to vote.
International Scrutiny And Continued Protests
Serbia Against Violence, adamant about the elections' annulment, sent a letter to European Union institutions, urging them not to recognize the outcome and to initiate an investigation. The protests have continued, with the opposition vowing to persist in their fight.
“„Police are everywhere, also on the roofs. It is obvious that they do not want to recognize [the] election results.- Nebojsa Zelenovic, leader of Serbia Against Violence
President Vučić has rejected calls for rerunning the vote, dismissing the allegations of irregularities as blatant lies.
In an address aired on pro-government Pink TV, he characterized the protests as "not a revolution" and warned against attempts to destabilize the state. Vučić claimed that the unrest was an attempted violent takeover and more arrests would follow.
International Reactions And Russia's Perspective
The unfolding events in Serbia have caught the attention of the international community. Russia accused Western countries of stirring up tensions.
“„The attempts of the collective West to destabilize the situation in the country are obvious.- Maria Zakharova, Russian Foreign ministry spokeswoman
Despite the controversy, the Kremlin welcomed the election results, expressing hope for strengthened ties between Russia and Serbia.
The situation in Belgrade remains tense, with ongoing protests and a deepening political crisis raising concerns about the stability of the region.
Final Words
Belgrade remains engulfed in political turmoil and civil unrest following the contested parliamentary and local elections. The clash between protesters demanding an election annulment and authorities has intensified, leading to arrests and clashes outside key government buildings.
President Aleksandar Vučić staunchly rejects claims of irregularities, dismissing them as lies propagated by the opposition. The international community, particularly Russia, has weighed in on the situation, further complicating the narrative.
As the protests continue and tensions escalate, the stability of the region hangs in the balance, with uncertainties surrounding the resolution of the electoral dispute.
Dexter Cooke
Author
Dexter Cooke is an economist, marketing strategist, and orthopedic surgeon with over 20 years of experience crafting compelling narratives that resonate worldwide.
He holds a Journalism degree from Columbia University, an Economics background from Yale University, and a medical degree with a postdoctoral fellowship in orthopedic medicine from the Medical University of South Carolina.
Dexter’s insights into media, economics, and marketing shine through his prolific contributions to respected publications and advisory roles for influential organizations.
As an orthopedic surgeon specializing in minimally invasive knee replacement surgery and laparoscopic procedures, Dexter prioritizes patient care above all.
Outside his professional pursuits, Dexter enjoys collecting vintage watches, studying ancient civilizations, learning about astronomy, and participating in charity runs.
Hajra Shannon
Reviewer
Hajra Shannona is a highly experienced journalist with over 9 years of expertise in news writing, investigative reporting, and political analysis.
She holds a Bachelor's degree in Journalism from Columbia University and has contributed to reputable publications focusing on global affairs, human rights, and environmental sustainability.
Hajra's authoritative voice and trustworthy reporting reflect her commitment to delivering insightful news content.
Beyond journalism, she enjoys exploring new cultures through travel and pursuing outdoor photography
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