Serbia’s Minister Resigns Following Novi Sad Train Station Scandal

Person handing over a resignation letter.

Serbia’s Construction Minister resigns amid deadly train station roof collapse, sparking nationwide protests and corruption concerns.

At a Glance

Construction Minister Goran Vesić resigns after a railway station canopy collapse killed 14 people in Novi Sad
The station was recently renovated as part of a deal with Chinese construction companies
Opposition parties demand resignations of top officials, including the president and prime minister
Protesters accuse the government of corruption and poor workmanship
President Vučić promises accountability, but critics doubt justice will be served

Minister Resigns Following Tragic Collapse

Serbia’s Construction Minister, Goran Vesić, has announced his resignation following a catastrophic railway station canopy collapse in Novi Sad that claimed 14 lives and injured three others. The incident has ignited a firestorm of criticism against the government, with opposition parties and citizens alike demanding accountability for what many see as a preventable tragedy.

Vesić, while stepping down, maintains his innocence in the matter. In a statement, he declared, “I cannot accept guilt for the death of 14 people because neither I, nor the people who work with me, bear even a shred of responsibility for the tragedy that happened.” Despite his resignation, which still needs to be confirmed by Serbia’s parliament, Vesić urged authorities to swiftly determine responsibility for the incident.

Serbia's Construction Minister Goran Vesic resigns after Novi Sad train station roof collapse killed 14, citing moral accountability despite not accepting direct responsibilityhttps://t.co/AsKLe6xtek

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Corruption Allegations and Chinese Investments

The Novi Sad station had undergone two recent renovations, raising questions about the quality of work and potential corruption. Critics point to the involvement of Chinese construction companies in these projects, part of a broader trend of Chinese investments in Serbia that have faced scrutiny over standards and controversies. The station’s renovation, which began in 2021 and was declared complete in July 2024, was touted as meeting “European standards.”

“Goran Vesić is one of the people most responsible for massive corruption in construction, for the policy of secret contracts with investors, and this is now leaving behind human victims,” said Radomir Lazović, co-chief of the opposition party Green-Left Front.

Adding to the controversy, documentation related to the renovation has been classified as confidential, fueling suspicions of impropriety. Opposition groups are demanding the opening of these secret contracts and a comprehensive audit of all construction works carried out under President Vučić’s administration.

Public Outrage and Protests

The tragedy has sparked widespread protests across Serbia, with thousands taking to the streets of Belgrade to demand accountability. Demonstrators left red handprints on government buildings, symbolizing the “bloody hands” they believe are responsible for the loss of life. Among the victims was a six-year-old girl, and some of the injured required amputations, further intensifying public anger.

“I am certain that the state authorities will determine criminal responsibility for the tragedy that happened in our country,” President Aleksandar Vučić said of the matter.

President Vučić has promised accountability and punishment for those responsible. However, many Serbians remain skeptical, given the rarity of resignations or dismissals of officials after major scandals under the Progressive Party’s rule. Serbian prosecutors have questioned over 40 people, including Vesić, but critics doubt that justice will be served.

Implications for Serbian Governance

This crisis not only questions the quality of public infrastructure but also highlights systemic governance issues in Serbia. The opacity surrounding the renovation contracts and the involvement of foreign firms in critical infrastructure projects have raised concerns about the government’s priorities and its ability to ensure public safety.

As the nation grapples with this tragedy, calls for reform and greater oversight in the construction sector are growing louder. The incident has become a rallying point for those demanding transparency and accountability in government operations, potentially marking a turning point in Serbian politics and governance.