Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic has chosen Djuro Macut, a medical professor with no political experience, to become the country’s new prime minister. The previous prime minister resigned after large anti-government protests.
These protests grew after a train station roof collapsed in November, killing 16 people. Many people blamed the government for being corrupt and incompetent, making this the biggest challenge to Vucic’s 12 years in power.
The government denies doing anything wrong and claims that Western intelligence agencies are trying to cause trouble in Serbia, a country of 6.6 million people.
Vucic announced his decision in a speech on Sunday night. He said Macut must now choose his ministers so the new government can be formed by April 18. Macut is 62 years old and teaches endocrinology at Belgrade University. He has supported Vucic’s Serbian Progressive Party (SNS) in the past.
Opposition politicians criticized the choice, calling Macut a puppet for Vucic.
„The prime minister can be anyone or no one—as long as Vucic is really in charge,” said Pavle Grbovic, leader of the Movement of Free Citizens.
„Knowing about polycystic ovaries doesn’t qualify you to run a country,” added former president Boris Tadic, who now leads the opposition Social Democratic Party.
The parliament, which is controlled by the ruling party, is expected to approve Macut. He will replace Milos Vucevic, the SNS party leader, who quit in March.
Protesters are demanding a temporary government be put in place before the next elections in 2027.
