The demonstration commenced in front of the Serbian parliament building, where participants expressed their dissatisfaction with the government's handling of the recent mass shootings that claimed the lives of 17 individuals. The protesters proceeded to march towards Belgrade's busiest bridge, blocking it for a duration of two hours, while carrying a banner that read "Serbia Against Violence."

During the protest, many voiced their grievances against President Aleksandar Vucic, whom they hold responsible for fostering an environment of despair and division within the nation, which they believe indirectly contributed to the occurrence of the mass shootings. Srdjan Milivojevic, an opposition politician, emphasized the significance of the protest, stating that it was a fight for survival. He urged the president to step down if he failed to comprehend the concerns of the people.

The organizers of the demonstration also demanded the resignations of Serbian Police Minister Bratislav Gasic and Aleksandar Vulin, the head of the Serbian Security Agency. Furthermore, they called for the cancellation of reality TV shows and other programs that they believe promote violence.

President Vucic, in response, accused the opposition of politicizing the tragedy. He criticized the protesters for disrupting the lives of citizens and questioned their authority to impede the normal functioning of society.

The first shooting occurred on May 3, when a 13-year-old boy killed eight of his schoolmates and a security guard. The boy was apprehended at the scene and placed under psychiatric care. The following day, on May 4, eight individuals were killed and 14 others injured when a gunman in a moving vehicle opened fire on pedestrians south of Belgrade. A 21-year-old suspect has been arrested in connection with this incident.

In response to the shootings, security around schools was strengthened, and the police detained over 10 minors for making threats or posting disturbing content on social media in the days following the incidents.

On May 7, Education Minister Branko Ruzic resigned, considering it the only rational and honorable decision in light of the shootings. He extended his condolences to the victims' families. His resignation was one of the demands put forth during the protests held throughout Serbia in the previous week. (ILKHA)