Ruzic: Decision made elsewhere, SPS accepted role as SNS branch

Branko Ruzic says his expulsion from the Socialist Party of Serbia was decided elsewhere, even though the formal vote took place inside the party.

“For years I have warned that the SPS is abandoning its political independence and identity,” Ruzic said. He argued that the party’s relationship with the Serbian Progressive Party had stopped being one between equal partners, saying the SPS had accepted the role of an SNS branch.

Ruzic said he had no problem leaving if remaining in the party required him to stay silent. He intends to remain politically active and said Serbia needs functioning institutions, equal application of the law and greater accountability from those in power. He also defended young people’s right to be dissatisfied, ask questions and protest.

The SPS Statutory Commission unanimously voted to expel him on Aug. 31. The party said he had repeatedly and deliberately violated its statute, ignored party decisions and policies, and caused enormous political damage. Ruzic had been suspended from all party positions for six months in April 2025 after joining protests against the ruling coalition, which includes the SPS.

“

For years I have warned that the SPS is abandoning its political independence and identity. Its relationship with the Serbian Progressive Party has long ceased to be one between equal partners. SPS has accepted the role of an SNS branch.