Serbian parliament erupts in chaos as opposition throws smoke bombs
This screengrab from handout video released by the Serbian government shows opposition lawmakers lighting flares and discharging suspected smoke bombs inside parliament. PHOTO: AFP
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Serbian opposition lawmakers hurled smoke grenades and tear gas inside parliament on Tuesday, triggering scenes of chaos as protests against the government intensified.
The dramatic display, aimed at supporting months-long student-led demonstrations, resulted in scuffles with security forces and injuries to at least two legislators.
The unrest unfolded as the spring session of parliament commenced. Moments after the ruling Serbian Progressive Party (SNS) approved the agenda, opposition members stormed toward Speaker Ana Brnabic, clashing with security personnel before releasing thick plumes of pink and black smoke. Live footage captured the chamber engulfed in haze, with lawmakers struggling to maintain order.
Speaker Brnabic confirmed that Jasmina Obradovic, an SNS lawmaker, suffered a stroke during the commotion and remains in critical condition. 'The parliament will continue to work and to defend Serbia,' Brnabic declared, pressing on with the session despite the disorder.
Opposition legislators resorted to whistling and blowing horns as the governing coalition proceeded with discussions. Outside the parliament building, protesters staged a silent vigil, paying tribute to 15 people killed in a railway station roof collapse—an incident that has fueled the broader wave of anti-government unrest.
The protests, initially led by students, have expanded to include teachers, farmers, and other groups, marking the most significant challenge to President Aleksandar Vucic's decade-long grip on power. Demonstrators accuse the government of corruption and mismanagement, with opposition leaders calling for a nationwide general strike.
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