**Serbia’s President Aleksandar Vucic Announces Resignation in Coming Weeks**
Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic has announced his intention to resign within the next few weeks, a decision that is expected to pave the way for early presidential and parliamentary elections in the country. Vucic made this announcement during a pro-government rally held in Belgrade on Saturday, where he addressed supporters and indicated that he would be stepping down to facilitate a transition in leadership.
"I will be president for only a couple of weeks, and then I will resign," Vucic stated, expressing confidence in his right-wing Serbian Progressive Party's chances in the upcoming elections. He emphasized that this would likely be his last address to supporters as the president of Serbia, suggesting a significant shift in the political landscape ahead.
While Vucic did not provide specific details regarding the exact date of his resignation or the timing of the elections, his announcement comes amid a backdrop of significant political unrest in Serbia. His second and final term as president was originally set to conclude in mid-2027, but the recent wave of protests has prompted a reevaluation of his position.
The decision to resign follows months of youth-led protests that have challenged Vucic's administration. These protests gained momentum after a tragic incident in November 2024, when a disaster at the Novi Sad rail station resulted in the deaths of 16 individuals. The incident ignited widespread anger towards the government, leading to mass demonstrations across the country.
Since the protests began, tens of thousands of citizens have rallied in various cities, expressing their dissatisfaction with the government and calling for accountability. The protests have also led to significant political consequences, including the resignation of then-Prime Minister Milos Vucevic in January 2025. The demonstrations have been characterized by a strong student presence, with participants demanding early elections and a change in leadership.
The response from Vucic's administration has been contentious, with the president labeling protesters as "foreign agents" and accusing them of attempting to sow division within the country. Reports from the European Union have raised concerns about the government's handling of the protests, including allegations of excessive force and arbitrary arrests by law enforcement.
In light of Vucic's announcement, student-led groups have planned their own gatherings to further advocate for national unity and renew calls for early elections. A rally is scheduled for Sunday in Kraljevo, central Serbia, where students will gather to voice their demands and continue the push for political change.
As Serbia prepares for a potential shift in leadership, the political climate remains charged, with many citizens closely watching the developments that will unfold in the coming weeks. Vucic's resignation marks a pivotal moment in Serbian politics, and the upcoming elections will be crucial in determining the future direction of the country.