Tens of thousands of people gathered in Belgrade on Saturday in a massive pro-government rally backing Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic, following months of political turmoil and widespread public protests across the country.

According to a leading monitoring organization, approximately 55,000 supporters assembled outside the National Assembly. Many had traveled from neighboring countries to show their support. However, the turnout was still notably smaller than the anti-government protest held last month, which had drawn even larger crowds.

The rally comes in the wake of ongoing demonstrations that began in November 2024, after a tragic incident in Novi Sad, where the collapse of a railway station canopy killed 15 people. The incident triggered national outrage and led to accusations of corruption and negligence directed at Vucic’s ruling Progressive Party.

Critics of the government claim the tragedy was a direct result of corner-cutting in construction projects and a lack of accountability. Since then, protests have become a regular feature in major cities across Serbia, demanding transparency and reform.

Despite the controversy, Saturday’s pro-government rally showcased Vucic’s enduring support among a significant portion of the population. Participants carried national flags and banners praising the president’s leadership and stability amid growing opposition.

Analysts believe the rally was strategically organized to reinforce Vucic’s political standing and counter the momentum gained by opposition forces over the past several months.

The Serbian government has not commented directly on the rally’s turnout but emphasized that the event reflected the “democratic right” of citizens to express their views.

The political atmosphere in Serbia remains tense, with both sides showing no signs of backing down. More rallies—both in support and opposition—are expected in the coming weeks as the country moves toward a possible referendum or early elections.