site.btaOutgoing Serbian Prime Minister Vucevic Will Not Seek Re-election

Outgoing Serbian Prime Minister Milos Vucevic said on Wednesday that he will not head a new government and remains firm in his decision to step down.

"This process is not subject to change. After this, until a decision is made on whether we will have a new government or elections, I will lead the government in a technical mandate. The situation here is very clear, both legally and politically," Vucevic said in an interview on local television K1.

Vucevic stepped down on January 28, following an attack on a group of protesting students in front of the headquarters of the ruling party in Novi Sad late that night.

In the interview, Vucevic also mentioned that his resignation is expected to be confirmed in the upcoming session of the National Assembly, which he said is just a matter of days. He pointed out that the decision to call a plenary session is made by the Speaker of Parliament in coordination with the leaders of parliamentary groups and noted that this process involves political consultations and discussions.

Vucevic further stated that he does not intend to lead any of the ministries in the future government.

Vucevic said that the demands of the students have been fully met. He emphasized that his resignation, as well as that of Novi Sad Mayor Milan Đuric, were not among the protesters' demands, except for a small group of "extremists in Novi Sad."

Vucevic expressed concerns that the ongoing protests and blockades in Serbia would negatively impact the economy and foreign investments.

He also voiced disappointment with the Rector's Council of the University of Belgrade, which had declined an invitation to meet with Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic the day before.

Vucevic further warned that the 30-day strike declared by the Bar Association threatens the legal security of Serbian citizens and the functioning of the judicial system.