BELGRADE (Reuters) – Many faculties, bookstores, theatres and bars in Serbia’s capital Belgrade and another elements stayed shut on Friday within the newest anti-government protest triggered by a railway station roof collapse that killed 15 individuals in November.
Demonstrators say corruption, nepotism and shoddy building work had been behind the catastrophe and wish swifter judicial motion in opposition to these discovered accountable.
The federal government denies blame for the deaths.
With lecturers’ unions backing a strike name from college students, most faculties in Belgrade had been closed on Friday.
1000’s of scholars gathered in entrance of the primary authorities constructing and stood silent for quarter-hour to recollect those that died when a concrete awning of the recently-renovated station roof within the metropolis of Novi Unhappy caved in.
They then deliberate to march throughout Belgrade.
Prosectuors in Novi Unhappy have indicted 13 individuals, together with a former infrastructure minister, in reference to the roof collapse, however the indictment has not but been accepted in court docket.
Theatres stated they might not present performs within the night and a publishing home stored its 45 bookstores closed.
“Students and teachers need our support in their fight for the just system of values in society,” the Laguna publishers stated in an announcement.
Some cafes in Belgrade stayed open however served free meals and drinks or lowered costs.
Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic, who wields sturdy affect within the ruling Serbia Progressive Social gathering, scheduled a counter-rally within the city of Jagodina later within the day.
Although his place is supposed to be largely ceremonial, protesters say he has abused the structure by usurping government powers. He denies that.
