Serbian Opposition Protesters Ignite Flares and Disperse “Tear Gas” Inside Parliament
Serbian Opposition Lawmakers Disrupt Parliament Session
Serbian opposition lawmakers caused chaos during the opening day of the spring session of parliament by lighting flares and discharging suspected tear gas. The incident occurred in a show of support for ongoing anti-corruption protests that have been plaguing the country for months.
Support for Anti-Corruption Protests
Footage shared online captured the opposition members holding colourful flares and throwing what seemed to be smoke canisters as the session began. The live video feed showed parliamentary speaker Ana Brnabic condemning the opposition’s protest and the alleged use of tear gas in the assembly. She defiantly stated, “Your colour revolution has failed, and this country will continue to work and win.”
Ongoing Anti-Corruption Protests
The anti-corruption protests in Serbia were sparked by the fatal collapse of a train station roof last year, resulting in the death of 15 people. Led by students, the movement has gained momentum and has put significant pressure on the Serbian government and President Aleksandar Vucic. The protests led to the resignation of several top officials, including the prime minister in January.
Parliament Session Disruption
During Tuesday’s session, which was the first since the prime minister’s resignation, chaos ensued as the opposition members protested by throwing eggs and water at ruling party members. Despite the disruption, plans were made to vote on a new higher education bill that would lower tuition fees for university students, a key demand of the protesters.
Violence Erupts in Parliament
The speaker of the parliament reported that multiple MPs were injured during the melee, with one lawmaker being taken to the intensive care unit after suffering a stroke. More chaotic scenes erupted later in the session when a fire extinguisher was discharged, flares were lit, and smoke canisters were set off.
Government Response and Student Protests
In response to the protests, the government has taken steps to address some of the student organizers’ demands, including releasing documents related to the train station renovations, pardoning arrested protesters, and increasing funding for higher education. Student protesters have been leading the movement and have been blockading campuses across the country.
Upcoming Protests
As tensions continue to rise, student protesters have refrained from aligning with Serbia’s political opposition. Thousands of demonstrators gathered in the city of Nis over the weekend, with plans for another large rally in the capital, Belgrade, on March 15. The protests show no signs of slowing down as the country grapples with political turmoil and demands for change.