Serbian president dissolves parliament, calls snap elections for October 25

Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic on Wednesday signed a decree dissolving parliament and called snap parliamentary elections for October 25.

Vucic made the announcement in a televised address at noon, saying the decision was aimed at easing prolonged political tensions and giving voters a clear say on the country's future. "We need election results that will clearly determine and demonstrate the will of the citizens, where, in what direction and on what path Serbia is heading," he said.

As president, Vucic said, he had always been guided by "the vital state interests of the Republic of Serbia and the interests of the citizens of Serbia." He said the timing of the election would allow Serbia to prepare for Expo 2027, which will open in Belgrade in May next year, as well as for the country's future development. "We will have enough time to prepare for the Expo and for everything that lies ahead," he said.

Vucic urged political parties and voters to take part in the 45-day campaign in a peaceful and dignified manner, respect differing political views, and respect the choices made by voters. "It is important to respect different political opinions, the right to freedom of assembly and public expression," he said. He expressed confidence that the Serbian people would "choose the right path into the future."

Serbian Prime Minister Djuro Macut formally proposed that the government ask the president to dissolve the National Assembly and call parliamentary elections following an extraordinary government session on Monday.

At a session of the Main Board of the ruling Serbian Progressive Party (SNS) on September 5, the party unanimously nominated Vucic as the lead candidate on its parliamentary election list and as its candidate for prime minister.