Galaxy Tribune Report: BELGRADE, March 4 – Serbia’s parliament descended into turmoil on Tuesday as opposition lawmakers threw smoke grenades and used pepper spray in a dramatic demonstration against the government. The chaos unfolded amid ongoing student-led protests, with one legislator suffering a stroke during the commotion.
The unrest stems from four months of student protests that erupted after a railway station roof collapse claimed 15 lives. The movement has since expanded, drawing in teachers, farmers, and other groups who accuse the government of corruption and incompetence. The protests pose the most significant challenge yet to President Aleksandar Vucic’s decade-long rule.
As the legislative session began, the ruling Serbian Progressive Party (SNS) approved the agenda, triggering a reaction from opposition lawmakers. Some rushed toward the parliamentary speaker, engaging in scuffles with security personnel, while others unleashed smoke grenades and pepper spray. Live television footage captured black and pink smoke filling the chamber—a scene reminiscent of previous parliamentary clashes since Serbia’s transition to multi-party democracy in 1990.
President Vucic later condemned the disruption, labeling it “hooliganism” and vowing to hold the responsible lawmakers accountable.
Parliament Speaker Ana Brnabic confirmed that three lawmakers sustained injuries, including SNS party member Jasmina Obradovic, who suffered a stroke and was promptly hospitalized. Health Minister Zlatibor Loncar reported that Obradovic remains in serious condition.
Despite the upheaval, the session continued with ruling coalition members debating while opposition lawmakers whistled and sounded horns in defiance. Protesters outside parliament observed a moment of silence to honor the victims of the Novi Sad tragedy. Opposition members held banners demanding a general strike and justice for those who perished in the collapse.
Opposition leaders have proposed the establishment of a transitional government to oversee free and fair elections. However, Vucic and his allies have firmly rejected this demand. The ruling coalition has accused Western intelligence agencies of attempting to destabilize Serbia and orchestrate the protests.
“We propose a transitional government,” Radomir Lazovic of the opposition Green-Left Front announced to supporters gathered outside parliament. Meanwhile, lawmakers were set to approve increased funding for universities—one of the key demands of student protesters. However, additional agenda items introduced by the ruling coalition, including the acknowledgment of Prime Minister Milos Vucevic’s resignation, sparked further opposition outrage.
“This was a failed attempt by the ruling coalition to demonstrate control,” a political analyst told to media, warning of further escalations if tensions remain unresolved.