Serbia’s construction minister resigns following a deadly railway station roof collapse, sparking protests and demands for accountability.
At a Glance
- Construction Minister Goran Vesic resigned after a railway station canopy collapse killed 14 people in Novi Sad
- The collapse has led to protests and calls for accountability in Serbia’s construction sector
- Critics blame corruption and poor workmanship for the disaster, which involved Chinese construction companies
- Opposition parties demand resignations of top officials and plan further protests
- President Vucic promised accountability, but critics doubt justice will be served
Minister Resigns Amid Tragedy
Serbia’s construction minister, Goran Vesic, announced his resignation following a catastrophic railway station canopy collapse in Novi Sad that claimed 14 lives and left three injured. The incident has sparked outrage across the nation, with citizens demanding accountability for what many perceive as a preventable tragedy.
“I would like to inform you that I will formally submit my resignation tomorrow morning. Once the parliament accepts it, I will no longer perform this duty,” Goran Vesic said.
The collapse, captured on surveillance footage, has raised serious questions about the safety standards and oversight in Serbia’s construction industry. The Novi Sad station had undergone two recent renovations, with the latest being part of a deal with Chinese construction companies. This collaboration has now come under intense scrutiny.
Protests and Calls for Further Action
The incident ignited a wave of protests across Serbia, with thousands taking to the streets of Belgrade to demand accountability. Demonstrators left red handprints on government buildings, symbolizing the “bloody hands” they believe are responsible for the loss of life.
Opposition parties have indicated that they are not satisfied with Vesic’s resignation. They are also calling for the removal of top officials, including the president and prime minister, holding them ultimately responsible for the accident. Groups have threatened further protests if their demands are not met.
Questions of Responsibility and Transparency
Despite his resignation, Vesic maintains his innocence in the matter. “I cannot accept guilt for the death of 14 people because neither I, nor the people who work with me, bear even a shred of responsibility for the tragedy that happened,” Vesic stated.
The renovation of the Novi Sad station, which began in 2021 and was declared complete in July 2024, was touted as meeting “European standards.” However, the documentation related to the renovation has been classified as confidential, raising concerns about transparency and fueling suspicions of corruption.
President Aleksandar Vucic has promised a thorough investigation and punishment for those responsible. However, critics remain skeptical, pointing to a history of limited accountability under the current administration.
Calls for Broader Reform
The Novi Sad tragedy has become a catalyst for demands to overhaul Serbia’s construction and governance practices. Opposition politicians are calling for the opening of secret contracts and a comprehensive audit of all construction works carried out under President Vučić’s rule.
“Goran Vesić is one of the people most responsible for massive corruption in construction, for the policy of secret contracts with investors, and this is now leaving behind human victims,” opposition leader Radomir Lazović said.
The coming weeks will likely see continued pressure on the government to enact meaningful reforms and restore public trust in the nation’s infrastructure and leadership.
