Fires spoiled Vučić's campaign, journalist says

Journalist Branko Čečen has sharply criticized Serbian state officials, including President Aleksandar Vučić and Interior Minister Ivica Dačić, for their delayed response to wildfires that have raged for over a month. Čečen stated that the government's initial inaction has resulted in the loss of more natural resources than necessary.

While acknowledging that no homes were destroyed and no lives were lost, Čečen emphasized the severe impact on biodiversity. He questioned the long-term consequences for Serbia's future and the health of its population, highlighting the importance of plant and animal life.

Čečen also accused President Vučić of employing "primitive, raw political marketing" by focusing on the heroic efforts of firefighters while downplaying the broader environmental damage. He described this tactic as a common strategy of authoritarian regimes, which he claims Vučić has utilized since the beginning of his political career.

Furthermore, Čečen called a statement by Luka Čaušić, head of the Sector for Emergency Situations, that "we have spoiled the citizens a bit," an "unfortunate remark." He argued that such language is inappropriate for someone dealing with a disaster.

Regarding upcoming elections, Čečen expressed skepticism about the fires' impact on public opinion, noting that citizens often do not hold the government accountable for numerous scandals. He also pointed out that Vučić's continued political campaigning as president violates the constitution, an issue he believes is largely ignored.