Serbia’s construction minister resigns following deadly roof collapse at Novi Sad train station
Damages on the facade are seen outside a train station in the northern Serbian city of Novi Sad on November 2, 2024, the day after an outdoor roof collapsed leaving at least 14 people killed and several people injured. (AFP Photo)
Serbia’s construction minister, Goran Vesic, announced Monday he will resign following the tragic roof collapse at a Novi Sad train station that killed 14 people last week.
“Tomorrow morning, I will officially submit my resignation as minister of construction, transportation, and infrastructure to the prime minister,” Vesic said during a live broadcast.
He stressed that while he did not accept responsibility for the deaths, he was stepping down to demonstrate moral accountability.
The deadly incident occurred on Nov. 1 when the train station roof in Novi Sad, a northern Serbian city, caved in, just months after a multi-year renovation had been completed, though the collapsed roof had not been part of the renovation.
Vesic revealed that he initially offered his resignation on the day of the accident but delayed making it public out of respect for the victims’ families.
Public outcry and protests in Serbia
On Sunday, Nov. 3, hundreds of protesters gathered in Belgrade, throwing red paint at the Ministry of Construction and calling for Vesic’s resignation. Demonstrators held a minute of silence to honor the victims, with many demanding accountability for the tragedy.
“Changes have to happen. There is someone responsible for everything, and those responsible for this must be found and removed as soon as possible,” said Natasa Simeunovic, a protester.
Prosecutors in Novi Sad stated that Vesic was questioned over the weekend alongside 25 others as part of the investigation into the collapse.
The Novi Sad train station underwent extensive renovations over a three-year period, completed in July. However, Serbian Railways clarified that the section of the roof that collapsed was not included in the recent renovation work.
Vesic, who has served as minister since October 2022, is well-known for his flamboyant persona in the public eye, having previously served in various municipal roles in Belgrade.
He gained attention for stunts such as drinking water from a public swimming pool on live television to prove its safety.
The resignation follows widespread criticism and scrutiny as Serbia reels from the deadly collapse.
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