Vučić resigns to seek premiership

Serbia’s President Aleksandar Vučić resigned on Sunday to lead the ruling Serbian Progressive Party into the 25 October early parliamentary election, seeking the prime ministership. The constitution bars him from a third term. His departure follows student-led protests over alleged corruption after the Novi Sad station canopy collapse killed 16 people.

• 16 peoplekilled in Novi Sad collapse
• 25 Octdate of parliamentary election
• 12 yearsat top of government
• Within 3 monthsdeadline for presidential vote

Q1

Who takes over the presidency?

Parliament speaker Ana Brnabić becomes acting president until voters choose a successor in an early presidential election required after the resignation.

Q2

Why did the protests begin?

They began after the Novi Sad station canopy collapse, which protesters linked to alleged corruption and for which they sought accountability.

Q3

Did he need to resign?

No. The law did not require him to leave office before campaigning, although he cannot seek another presidential term.

Q4

How long has Vučić led Serbia?

He has served as either prime minister or president for 12 years, so the vote tests a long period at the top.