Thirteen indicted, former minister faces justice for deadly roof collapse in Novi Sad

In Serbia, on November 1, a tragic incident occurred in the northern city of Novi Sad when a concrete canopy at a railway station collapsed, resulting in the death of 15 individuals. This catastrophic event has ignited widespread protests against the government, as citizens demand accountability and transparency regarding possible corruption in construction practices. Following this incident, Serbia's public prosecutor indicted 13 people, which included a former construction minister Goran Vesic, on serious criminal charges related to public safety and improper execution of construction work. If convicted, these individuals could face sentences of up to 12 years in prison. The collapse was part of a railway station's infrastructure renovations that involved significant investments, including partnerships with Chinese companies. Despite the renovations occurring twice in recent years, many believe that a lack of oversight and rampant corruption led to substandard work which contributed to the fatal incident. The protests have been characterized as anti-government, reflecting widespread anger about perceived negligence and corruption linked to the populist governance of President Aleksandar Vucic. In the days following the collapse, street protests erupted, particularly led by students who demanded reform and justice for the victims. These demonstrations have included moments of silence for those who lost their lives, as well as calls for systemic change. Critics of the government, including opposition politicians, have expressed their discontent with the charges brought against the indicted, arguing that the investigation fails to address broader issues of corruption that might have played a role in the tragedy. The judicial process is ongoing, with the prosecutor seeking to detain the suspects pending trial. However, skepticism remains about the independence of the Serbian judiciary, particularly given the government's control over various state institutions, raising concerns about the fairness and transparency of the investigation. As Serbia grapples with the aftermath of this tragedy, the future of its government and its accountability is increasingly uncertain, which has prompted many citizens to continue their advocacy for deeper investigations into construction practices and governance.