Sat Nov 01 08:26:05 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary and a news article based on the provided text:

Summary:

Tens of thousands gathered in Novi Sad, Serbia, to commemorate the one-year anniversary of a railway station collapse that killed 16 people. This tragedy has fueled widespread, student-led anti-government protests, initially demanding a transparent investigation but escalating to calls for early elections due to perceived corruption. Protesters marched from various parts of the country to Novi Sad, receiving support from local residents. While organizers stressed a peaceful, victim-focused commemoration, the protests reflect deeper issues of corruption and government control. President Vucic, after initially denouncing protesters, apologized and called for dialogue. Investigations into the collapse and potential misuse of EU funds are ongoing.

News Article:

Serbia Mourns Station Collapse Anniversary Amidst Ongoing Anti-Government Protests

Novi Sad, Serbia – Tens of thousands of people converged on Novi Sad Saturday to mark the first anniversary of the tragic railway station collapse that claimed the lives of 16 individuals. The incident, which occurred on November 1, 2024, has become a focal point for widespread anti-government protests driven by accusations of entrenched corruption and a lack of accountability.

Student-led demonstrations, initially focused on demanding a transparent investigation into the collapse, have evolved into broader calls for early elections and systemic change. Demonstrators marched from across Serbia, including a 16-day, 100km trek from Belgrade, met with enthusiastic support from Novi Sad residents who provided food and shelter.

“What I want to know is who killed my child so I can have a little peace,” said Dijana Hrka, whose 27-year-old son was among the victims. “I am looking for justice. I want no other mother to go through what I am going through.”

The protests have already led to significant political upheaval, including the resignation of the prime minister and the formation of a new government. However, President Aleksandar Vucic has remained in power, initially dismissing protesters as foreign agents. In a surprising turn, Vucic issued a public apology on Friday, expressing regret for his past statements and calling for dialogue.

The commemorative rally at the Novi Sad railway station commenced at 11:52 a.m. local time, the exact moment of the tragedy, with 16 minutes of silence.

Thirteen individuals, including former construction minister Goran Vesic, face criminal charges related to the collapse. An additional anti-corruption investigation is underway, along with a European Union-backed probe into potential misuse of EU funds allocated to the station project.

The government declared Saturday a national day of mourning, while the head of the Serbian Orthodox Church, Patriarch Porfirije, conducted a mass for the victims. The EU delegation in Serbia issued a statement urging restraint and de-escalation of tensions.

Political analyst Aleksandar Popov highlighted that corruption remains a major problem in Serbia.

The situation remains tense, with ongoing investigations and deep-seated public discontent threatening further political instability.

Read More