By TheWorldNews7 News Desk
Aleksandar Vučić has conceded defeat in a seismic Serbian parliamentary election, ending his 12-year reign following a massive surge in student-led protests. Preliminary results indicate that the student-led movement, running as the 'Student List,' has secured a significant victory, potentially gaining a majority in the country's 250-seat parliament.
Victory for the Student-Led Movement
Speaking at his party headquarters in Belgrade, Vučić noted that based on sample results, the Student List is projected to win between 135 and 140 seats. His own Serbian Progressive Party (SNS) is expected to secure approximately 105 seats. This shift follows two years of intense protests ignited by student activists against his increasingly authoritarian government.
Record Voter Turnout and Celebrations
The election saw a record-breaking turnout, estimated at 67.6% by pollsters CeSID and Ipsos, the highest since the breakup of Yugoslavia in 1992. As news of the concession spread, spontaneous celebrations erupted across Belgrade and other major cities. Supporters of the Student List gathered at their headquarters to celebrate what they described as a victory for the voice of the people.
Political Context and Protests
The movement gained momentum following the tragic collapse of a concrete canopy at the Novi Sad railway station in November 2024, which killed 16 people. The disaster sparked widespread allegations of corruption and poor construction practices, fueling anti-government sentiment. In response to mounting pressure, Vučić resigned the presidency last month to trigger these snap elections.
The Road Ahead for Serbia
The Student List campaign featured a diverse slate of 250 candidates, including academics, farmers, and athletes, running on a platform to restore democracy and rebuild the economy. While international monitors noted various irregularities during the voting process, the outcome marks a potential new era for the Balkan nation as it seeks to move away from its recent political trajectory.
