Vrbas marks one year since protest clashes: 'Lest we forget that terrible day'

A year after protests and violent incidents in Vrbas, residents are gathering to commemorate the events. The planned gathering aims to ensure that the "terrible day" is not forgotten.

Students are organizing the event, scheduled for the same time and place as last year's clashes. Their slogan, "Same place, same time, one year later. We have not forgiven you for August 12," directly addresses the Serbian Progressive Party (SNS). They recall being targeted with bottles, stones, and pyrotechnics.

Student Andrej told N1 that the goal is remembrance, highlighting the "brutal attacks" and the lack of accountability. He stated that the local SNS branch claimed the protesters were at fault for the attacks and the projectiles thrown. "No one has been apprehended so far," Andrej said, adding that the municipal president has not commented in a year.

While the atmosphere in Vrbas is currently calm, there are reports of increased police presence. The organizers emphasize that their gathering will be peaceful, intended solely to mark the anniversary of the "terrible day." The program includes two speakers and a possible short march.