Serbians mark railway disaster that fuelled rise of victorious student movement

Novi Sad, Serbia witnessed a gathering on Sunday to commemorate the two-year anniversary of a railway station disaster that sparked a student-led protest movement, ultimately leading to the ousting of President Aleksandar Vucic in recent elections. The tragic event occurred on November 1, 2024, when a concrete awning collapsed at the main train station, claiming the lives of 16 individuals. Mourners observed a solemn 16-minute silence before laying wreaths, flowers, and candles at the site.

For student supporter Zorana Sijan Oborina, the disaster serves as a catalyst for collective healing. The disaster, which occurred at a station renovated under a China-backed high-speed rail project, was viewed as a symptom of corruption during Vucic's tenure. This sparked nationwide anti-corruption protests that culminated in his party's defeat in the recent elections.

The protests led to resignations, including that of the construction minister, government reshuffles, and ultimately, snap elections. Prosecutors indicted 13 individuals over the collapse, but pretrial proceedings have become bogged down. The defendants deny any wrongdoing.

Student-led bloc, known as the Student List, secured a significant victory in the parliamentary elections. With 141 seats out of 250, as per a preliminary tally, they are expected to maintain their strong position in the final results. Vucic, running as the candidate for prime minister from his Socialistic Party, conceded defeat and stepped down. A presidential election is anticipated before the end of the year.