Vučić: I'll go to church tomorrow and light candles for the 16 victims; we will keep their souls in our hearts

“Dear citizens of Serbia, a year ago our country experienced a terrible tragedy: 16 lives were lost in the accident at the railway station in Novi Sad. Each one of them had a life, each one a member of a family, a community, our society, and a state that has been shaken ever since. Sixteen souls who never imagined this would happen to them. Tomorrow, November 1, I will go to church to pray to God and light a candle for each of them. I invite people to do the same; I know many of you will want to,” Vučić said.

He added that, a year after this terrible tragedy, he can acknowledge that many in our society, including himself, have made enormous mistakes.

“Many have slandered, broken rules, and committed acts of violence against others and their property. As some have shown anger, at times I myself have said things I now regret having spoken—about students as well as others with whom I disagreed. Those who know me understand that I am my own harshest critic. I want each of us tomorrow to reflect on the things we have said and done. All this boiling hatred in our society brings nothing good,” the president emphasized.

He added that his sincere wish is for tomorrow to pass peacefully, with respect.

“True justice must be served, but not in the streets. Let tomorrow be a day when we unite in the grief of the families, not a day for anyone to exploit for their own political gain. Those who wish to protest may do so, but with greater respect for the laws and rules in society that we all must follow. Once again, I urge those who protest to participate in discussions—not through ultimatums, but as part of a conversation,” Vučić noted.

The president underlined that things we once took for granted are collapsing in today’s world.

“Tectonic changes are taking place. We must respond to all of this in the best way, together and united. Despite everything, Serbia will endure—I have no doubt—but whether it will progress depends on all of us. We will have less energy to devote to the growth of our country. Once again, I offer my sincere condolences to the families of the victims. I hope their families find comfort in every way possible, even though I know there will never be enough strength or true solace. We will keep all those souls and beloved names in our hearts. May God grant their souls peace and the heavenly kingdom. Long live Serbia,” Vučić concluded.