Vidovdan Celebration in 'Ćacilend' Marks Defeat for Serbian Kosovo Policy, Says Politician

Politician Momčilo Trajković has sharply criticized the ruling Serbian Progressive Party's (SNS) celebration of Vidovdan in a location referred to as "Ćacilend," located in front of the Serbian Presidency building. Trajković asserted that this choice of venue represents an admission of defeat for the Belgrade authorities' policy concerning Kosovo and Metohija.

Speaking to the Beta agency, Trajković accused the SNS and President Aleksandar Vučić of betraying all national interests. He suggested that "Ćacilend" is the only appropriate space for them to gather their supporters. "The celebration of Vidovdan in 'Ćacilend' is a desecration of one of the most significant dates in Serbian history and an acknowledgment of the defeat of the government's policy towards Kosovo and Metohija," Trajković stated.

He further argued that the SNS and Vučić have compromised everything related to Serbian history and national policy in Kosovo. Trajković commented that it is fortunate Vučić and the SNS leadership cannot attend Gazimestan, as their presence would render the commemoration meaningless. He characterized Vučić's statement that Tsar Murat was a greater hero than Prince Lazar as evidence of a "disturbed mind," explaining why they are not accepted outside of "Ćacilend."

In response, SNS leader Miloš Vučević told reporters that for the current government, Pionirski Park in Belgrade serves as their Gazimestan. "Pionirski Park in Belgrade, for us, in a way, represents Gazimestan, because we are defending the state," Vučević said. He announced that, in agreement with the president, they would invite supporters to join students in marking Vidovdan in Pionirski Park. Pionirski Park has been occupied since March by students aligned with the SNS, with tents erected and public access restricted. Reports indicate that individuals with criminal records have gathered there under police protection, occasionally assaulting journalists, passersby, and tourists.