Cracks in Belgrade Progressives: Šapić's 'rat channels' remark exposes party conflicts

Belgrade Mayor Aleksandar Šapić has once again stirred internal discord within the ruling Serbian Progressive Party (SNS) by speaking of "rat channels" through which he claims to be attacked. This rhetoric resurfaced during a recent press conference, where Šapić alleged that certain interest groups within his own party are pursuing "small particular motives" that threaten to undermine the interests of Belgrade residents. He specifically suggested these groups are exploiting issues like public transportation to damage his standing.

Šapić's use of the term "rat channels" is not new; he previously accused former minister Goran Vesić of using similar clandestine methods. Now, the focus appears to be on current party members who allegedly oppose him. Opposition councilor Stefan Simić has publicly called on Šapić to name these individuals and urged the SNS to clarify who is working against the mayor. Simić stated, "So I invite him to come out publicly and say it and invite the people from the Serbian Progressive Party to say who is against Aleksandar Šapić."

“

Now he is again waging war against them and, as he says, they against him. So I invite him to come out publicly and say it and invite the people from the Serbian Progressive Party to say who is against Aleksandar Šapić.

The mayor has indicated he will reveal names once he has definitive proof, echoing a past instance where he publicly identified Goran Vesić. Šapić also referenced President Vučić's comments about internal family conflicts, suggesting that while problems should ideally remain within the party, he is prepared to retaliate against those who attack him "under the table."

Speculation about who might be involved is rampant, with opposition figures like Miloš Pavlović from the People's Movement of Serbia suggesting potential contenders could include Siniša Mali, who remains an alderman and could represent a backup option for the SNS. However, the ruling majority in the City Assembly has remained silent. Journalist Jelena Bulajić of the Nova portal observes that tensions within the SNS in Belgrade have been evident for some time, possibly stemming from uncertainty among party members about their future security and protection within the party structure. Despite these internal struggles, Šapić maintains he had full SNS support for measures concerning city transport, even as President Vučić recently became involved in resolving issues within the public transport company.

“

I said - whoever hits me under the table, I will hit them back. Because I don't hit under the table. And I will do it again when I know the exact name. When I know it, then I will define it.