Opposition slams Vučić's pension aid as vote-buying, economic failure

Serbian opposition parties have strongly criticized President Aleksandar Vučić's proposed one-time payments to pensioners, labeling the move as a blatant attempt to purchase electoral support and an implicit acknowledgment that the current pension system is failing.

Novi DSS, a party advocating for reforms, proposed several measures to address perceived injustices and improve the financial standing of seniors. Among their proposals is the abolition of lifelong penalties for early retirement, which they deem profoundly unfair, especially for individuals who began working young and accumulated substantial years of service. They also suggest introducing a state pension for citizens aged 65 and above who lack property or income, framing it as a humane and socially responsible initiative. Furthermore, Novi DSS advocates for ensuring that the average pension from full employment does not fall below 65 percent of the average salary in Serbia, aiming to affirm and stimulate work as a societal value.

The party SRCE (Serbia Center) echoed these criticisms, characterizing the aid as "buying support" and a clear indicator of the "economic collapse" Serbia faces under the current administration. They contend that after 14 years in power, Vučić has finally admitted that citizens struggle with basic existence, resorting to a 600 million euro handout to secure another term. SRCE blames a decade of policies focused on questionable investments, opaque contracts, and excessive subsidies to foreign companies for devastating the domestic economy, creating a populace dependent on the ruling party.

Dušan Nikezić of the Party of Freedom and Justice (SSP) further attacked the president, stating that Vučić, who allegedly "illegally took pensions worth 700 million" from pensioners, is now speaking about aid. The opposition collectively argues that these measures, despite their pre-election timing, will not save the current regime. They believe citizens will vote for a structured and free Serbia where work is valued, rather than accepting what they see as political hostages created by the current leadership.