2023-12-18 16:42:11
Schieder calls for more justice and democracy for the people of Serbia
Vienna (OTS/SK) – Sunday’s elections in Serbia delivered another victory for longtime President Aleksandar Vučić and his ruling SNS party, but reports of voter fraud and violence raise concerns. SPÖ delegation leader Andreas Schieder was on site as an election observer and is calling for an independent investigation into all irregularities: “I applaud the Serbian citizens for the high voter turnout, which is even higher than in previous elections. This shows a clear determination that the people of Serbia want to have a say in decisions regarding their future. Therefore, the reports of fraud and the Vučić regime’s attempts to influence the election results are particularly worrying. In particular, the news regarding buses carrying non-residents being taken to Belgrade to vote is shocking. Vote theft, bribery and corruption must not be allowed in a democratic world. All Serbs deserve justice and democracy instead of sham electoral processes with violence and polarization. All reported irregularities must be fully investigated. In addition, the reports of pressure on voters and journalists, hate speech during election campaigns, misuse of public resources and possible influence and manipulation by Russia and other foreign states are deeply disturbing. I am particularly concerned regarding the allegations of fraud in Belgrade, as what happened may have cost the opposition its victory. It was good to see a united and strong opposition during the election campaign and I count on their continued fight for democracy in Serbia, even following the elections.” ****
Schieder added: “Despite all the concerns, I still hope that Serbia will show real commitment to its path to the EU in the future. The people of Serbia who demand justice, democracy and a European future deserve our full support. In addition, the EU must finally end its appeasement policy towards Vučić and ensure that Serbia, as the largest country in the region, fully meets its responsibility for stability and peace in the Western Balkans. This is necessary for a better European future for the region. This includes the immediate implementation of the normalization agreement between Belgrade and Pristina, which was reached within the framework of the EU-supported negotiations.” (Conclusion) lp
Questions & Contact:
Lena Easthill
Press spokeswoman for the SPÖ delegation in the European Parliament
+32 472397210
lena.easthill@europarl.europa.eu
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