News|ProtestsThousands rally in Serbia as students continue fight against corruptionUniversity students have proposed banning corrupt officials from politics and investigating their wealth.

A significant protest occurred in Novi Sad, Serbia, where university students have led demonstrations against alleged corruption under President Aleksandar Vucic. The demonstrators have outlined a plan to eliminate corruption and restore the rule of law, including proposals to ban corrupt officials from political roles and investigate their assets.

The protests began following a tragic incident in November 2024, where a train station roof collapse in Novi Sad resulted in 16 fatalities. This incident has become a symbol of alleged systemic corruption. Subsequently, thirteen individuals, including a former Construction Minister, were charged, although charges against the minister were later dropped due to insufficient evidence.

An ongoing anticorruption inquiry is being conducted in parallel with a European Union-backed investigation into potential misuse of EU funds related to the train station project.

The protest movement has seen significant public engagement, with an estimated 400,000 signatures collected in support of the students' political efforts. The next rally is scheduled for January 27 in Belgrade.

In response to the train station collapse, the Serbian Prime Minister resigned, leading to the formation of a new government, though President Vucic remains in office. Despite the protests, Vucic has denied corruption allegations and has not scheduled an early election.

President Vucic, in power for over a decade, initially aimed to integrate Serbia into the European Union but has since developed closer ties with Russia and China. His administration faces accusations of undermining democratic freedoms and fostering corruption.

The student-led movement has gained considerable support from the Serbian public, many of whom are disenchanted with traditional political figures.

Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.