Serbias Vučič calls early parliamentary elections for October amid anti-government protests

Serbian President Aleksandar Vučič announced on Thursday that early parliamentary elections will be held on Oct. 18 or Oct. 25, more than a year ahead of the original December 2027 schedule. Vučič, who has served as president or prime minister for 12 years, said the exact date would be confirmed in the coming days during a televised address.

The elections follow Vučič’s June 27 pledge to resign within weeks to clear the way for early parliamentary and presidential votes after 18 months of anti-government protests. He did not specify when he would step down to trigger the presidential election. Analysts cited in German media said Vučič could become prime minister if his Serbian Progressive Party wins the parliamentary vote, as he is constitutionally barred from seeking a third presidential term.

The protests began after a canopy collapsed at a railway station in Novi Sad in November 2024, killing 16 people. Demonstrators, led largely by students, accused the government of corruption and demanded political change and early elections. Opposition groups have alleged violence against political opponents, systemic corruption, ties to organized crime, and media suppression—claims Vučič and his allies deny.

Serbia remains an EU membership candidate but maintains close ties with Russia and China. The European Union has stated that Serbia must improve its rule of law, including ensuring free and fair elections, combating corruption and organized crime, and aligning its foreign policy with EU standards before accession.

Vučič also addressed questions about coalition partners, stating that the Serbian Progressive Party would run on its own list while other political options would appear separately. “You will have elections. On one list will be the Serbian Progressive Party with its list, and on the other, all other political options. I will not take away anyone’s right to run,” he said .

The protests, initially focused on holding officials accountable for the Novi Sad collapse, expanded into broader demands for systemic reform amid allegations of repression and corruption. Vučič had previously hinted at possible election dates but delayed calling them, with some analysts suggesting unfavorable polling may have been a factor.