Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić Announces Resignation and Early Elections Amid Protests

Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić declared on June 27, 2026, that he will resign within weeks and call for early presidential and parliamentary elections, advancing the vote by about a year. The announcement follows a year and a half of intense protests sparked by a fatal roof collapse at a Novi Sad train station in November 2024, which killed 16 people and fueled widespread accusations of government corruption and mismanagement.

Vučić, a controversial figure and close ally of Israel, stated during a pro-government rally in Belgrade that he will remain president for only a few more weeks before stepping down. His current term was originally set to end in mid-2027. Despite the dramatic resignation announcement, many analysts and opposition figures view it as a political maneuver rather than a genuine exit from power. Serbia's constitution limits presidents to two consecutive terms, and Vučić has served since 2017.

Vučić also announced that his Serbian Progressive Party will contest the upcoming elections under the name "United Serbia," aiming to secure victory in both presidential and parliamentary races. However, he did not specify the exact date of his resignation or when the parliament would be dissolved. Opposition leaders, including Savo Manojlović of the Move-Change movement, accuse Vučić of attempting to preempt his political downfall amid growing public support for the protests and opposition, which recent polls suggest could win over 50% of the vote compared to Vučić's 42%.

Political experts speculate Vučić may return to power as a "superior" prime minister if his party wins the parliamentary elections, or install an ally as president to maintain influence. Vučić himself has hinted at a possible return to the prime ministership in past interviews. In his speech, he accused protesters and students of trying to "destroy the country" and collaborating with foreign agents, claims rejected by demonstrators.

During his 12 years in office as president or prime minister, Vučić has faced allegations from opposition groups of corruption, political violence, ties to organized crime, and media suppression, all of which he denies. Under his leadership, Serbia has significantly strengthened its ties with Israel, notably increasing defense procurement from Jerusalem.