Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic has issued an apology following a controversial incident in which he referred to a journalist from the state-run TV as an “imbecile.” This verbal attack came on the heels of extensive anti-government protests orchestrated by university students, who have been vocal against the right-wing government’s policies. These significant demonstrations, which have been ongoing since a tragic train station accident claimed 15 lives last November, attribute the disaster to governmental corruption.
The recurring protests, which usually attract large crowds, have become a significant challenge to Vucic’s administration, which has been in power for over a decade with a strong pro-Russia stance. Protesters have recently found their voices amplified as the state broadcaster, RTS, commenced coverage of these events. This move by RTS has drawn ire from Vucic and his officials, as state-controlled media traditionally aligns with government interests.
During a rally in Nis over the past weekend, demonstrators pledged to strive for a nation founded on justice and adherence to the rule of law. This movement is gaining momentum, with plans for a major demonstration in Belgrade slated for March 15. In response, President Vucic mentioned planning a counter-rally to bolster support, although he did not specify when this would take place.
In his apology, Vucic admitted, “I have no right to call anyone an imbecile and I apologize,” yet he also criticized the RTS reporters, accusing them of acting as political operatives rather than journalists. This sparked backlash from the broadcaster, which defended its staff by insisting that no public official should engage in such demeaning rhetoric against their journalists.
Moreover, Vucic declared himself the target of an “unconstitutional” campaign led by Western intelligence agencies, meant to oust or, in extreme cases, assassinate him. He also labeled the protests, which have included blockades of transportation and government facilities, as unlawful. Additionally, he dismissed the demonstrators’ motivations as baseless and not representative of the broader population’s will.
