Serbian President Vučić to resign within weeks, triggering early elections

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6 days · 4 summary articles
Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić announced on Saturday that he will resign within weeks, triggering early presidential and parliamentary elections in a move that follows 18 months of sustained anti-government protests. The decision, disclosed after a cabinet meeting in Belgrade, comes amid escalating pressure from student-led demonstrations demanding political change and accountability for a deadly structural collapse in Novi Sad that killed 16 people in late 2024.
Vučić, who has dominated Serbian politics for 13 years as both prime minister and president, framed his resignation as a step toward democratic renewal. “I will remain in office for only a few more weeks,” he told reporters, adding that elections would be held to restore public trust . However, political analysts and opposition figures warn that the move may be tactical, with speculation that Vučić intends to pivot to the premiership—a position currently held by his close ally, President of the National Assembly Ivica Dačić.
The protests, which began in late 2024 after the collapse of a railway canopy in Novi Sad, have since expanded into a broader anti-corruption and pro-democracy movement. Demonstrators have repeatedly called for Vučić’s resignation, accusing his government of authoritarianism and mismanagement. International observers have also raised concerns over media freedom and electoral integrity in Serbia. “This resignation is not a concession to democracy but a calculated shift to retain power,” argued political analyst Bota Sot in an op-ed .
Vučić’s announcement follows conflicting reports about his intentions. Earlier this week, French outlet RFI reported that his resignation would open the door to early elections, while German newspaper *Süddeutsche Zeitung* suggested the move could allow Vučić to run as a candidate in the upcoming vote . Dutch newspaper *de Volkskrant* similarly noted that Vučić may seek to influence the electoral process as a leading figure in his party .
In a separate development, Vučić confirmed during a military inspection near Belgrade that mandatory conscription in the Serbian army will resume in March 2027, a decision likely aimed at reinforcing national security amid regional tensions . The announcement coincides with heightened scrutiny of Serbia’s defense policies and its alignment with Western and Russian interests.
As Serbia prepares for elections, opposition groups are scrambling to consolidate their positions. The Democratic Party, led by Stefanos Kasselakis, has distanced itself from former deputy leader Eleni Tzakri, signaling internal realignment ahead of the vote . Meanwhile, international actors, including the EU, are closely monitoring developments to assess whether the elections will meet democratic standards.
Vučić’s resignation marks a pivotal moment for Serbia, but the path forward remains uncertain. Whether his departure leads to genuine reform or a continuation of his political influence under a new title will shape the country’s democratic trajectory in the coming months.
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