Vučić: Slovenia verdict gives Patriarch Porfirije 'aura of a martyr'

Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić commented on the conviction of Serbian Orthodox Church head Patriarch Porfirije in Slovenia, asserting that the verdict highlights the prevailing attitude toward the church, which he described as a "pillar of Serbian society."

Vučić suggested that the conviction, for alleged actions he claims the Patriarch did not commit, could paradoxically enhance his public image. "In my opinion, Patriarch Porfirije can even be proud of this verdict because it shows how important he is to the Serbian people and what all those who do not like the Serbian people think of him," Vučić stated while inspecting road construction near Leskovac.

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In my opinion, Patriarch Porfirije can even be proud of this verdict because it shows how important he is to the Serbian people and what all those who do not like the Serbian people think of him.

Media reports indicate that Patriarch Porfirije received a four-month suspended prison sentence. The charges stemmed from allegations of workplace harassment made by priest Zeljko Lubarda in Ljubljana. Lubarda claims he faced prolonged pressure after refusing to provide false testimony to conceal alleged financial irregularities within the church.

The President believes the ruling could bestow upon the Patriarch "the aura of a victim and a martyr," potentially strengthening his support among the faithful. The case has drawn attention to the relationship between the Serbian state and the Serbian Orthodox Church.

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can give the Serbian Patriarch the aura of a victim and a martyr, and provide him with even greater strength from the people he faithfully serves.