Police commanders attend ruling party rally as election scrutiny grows
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The role of the police in the upcoming elections is under intense scrutiny, with a legal expert stating that police are acting as the "fist of the authorities" and questioning the presence of high-ranking Gendarmerie and Criminal Investigation Department officials at ruling party rallies. This comes as the Ministry of Internal Affairs held a second meeting with the ODIHR mission for election observation.
Adding to concerns about the rule of law, a law professor has raised doubts about the transparency and legality of procedures for pardons and amnesties, citing a lack of official statements from the Ministry of Justice. Meanwhile, President Aleksandar Vučić has addressed the Niš fortress fire, controversially claiming no damage occurred and suggesting images were AI-generated, a statement questioned for potentially hindering investigations.
In other developments, former President Tomislav Nikolić has appeared in an election spot for the 'Aleksandar Vučić – United Serbia' list, urging unity. Economists are debating the potential cancellation of the EXPO event, with some arguing it would be politically and economically unacceptable. New details have also emerged in the trial concerning a fatal mine accident in Majdanpek.