More than 1,00,000 people gathered in Belgrade on Saturday to protest against government corruption. Serbia’s interior minister confirmed the massive turnout. The rally remained peaceful. However, the crowd made their voices heard. People blew whistles, banged drums, and used vuvuzelas. Many carried banners that read, “He’s Finished!” Meanwhile, protesters chanted, “Pump it Up,” a slogan that gained popularity over the past four months.

Hundreds of thousands of people have taken to the streets of Belgrade, Serbia, demanding the resignation of pro-Russia President Aleksandar Vučić. pic.twitter.com/YnwnEqyjbw

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Milenko Kovacevic, a protester, believed this would weaken President Aleksandar Vucic’s authority. “I expect this to shake his authority and for Vucic to realize that people no longer support him,” he said.

Biggest Protest in Serbia’s History

This was likely the largest anti-government protest ever in Serbia. Moreover, it followed months of demonstrations against corruption. After 13 years in power, Vucic now faces his most serious opposition.

The protests began after a railway station roof collapsed, killing 15 people. As a result, many blamed corruption and government negligence. Meanwhile, Vucic’s supporters also gathered, raising fears of possible clashes.

Protesters Call for Democracy

Although the rally was massive, protesters said it was only the beginning. Dejan Simic, another protester, emphasized their long-term goal. “This is just the beginning of the end, a process which I hope will end soon,” he said.

Furthermore, student leaders urged protesters to remain peaceful. They released a statement warning, “The purpose of this movement is not an incursion into institutions, nor to attack those who do not think as we do.” Additionally, they stressed, “This movement must not be misused.”

Vucic Blames Western Influence

Despite growing pressure, Vucic refused to consider a transitional government or early elections. Instead, his supporters camped near his headquarters, including former paramilitary members and violent soccer hooligans.

Meanwhile, private N1 television aired footage of young men in baseball caps entering the pro-Vucic camp. At the same time, Vucic accused Western intelligence of organizing the protests to remove him. However, he provided no evidence to support his claim.

Overall, tensions remain high. Nevertheless, previous student-led protests stayed peaceful and attracted massive crowds.