MEP Groselj for N1: Vucic’s words are a “nervous reaction”

“If standing up for one of the fundamental and democratic values of the European Union (EU), which is fair and free elections for the citizens of Serbia, makes me an enemy, that says more about the ruling establishment in Serbia than it does about what I stand for. That is a nervous reaction to the fact that there is increasing international pressure and debate around the elections that took place in Serbia under such conditions,” Groselj told N1.

He added that preliminary reports had been prepared clearly showing serious violations of the standards of democratic elections, which should be free and fair.

Groselj also said in a post on the X social media platform that him standing up for the cornerstone of any democratic society, which is free and fair elections, is not an expression of hatred, but an expression of support for a democratic Serbia.

“Standing up for free media, a democratic and fair electoral process, and supporting civil society and individuals in protecting their electoral will is unfortunately not only unwelcome in Serbia, but is also becoming the norm in the EU thanks to the far right,” he wrote.

He added that he himself, as someone who is elected, cannot accept violations of fundamental democratic values and principles on which European democracy rests.

International observers, including Groselj, pointed out after the Serbian December 17 elections that the ruling Serbian Progressive Party (SNS) had systemic advantages, while Groselj also highlighted President Vucic's involvement in the election campaign and his influence on the Serbian media.

He said there was a low level of political debate, while the observers also pointed out that there was pressure on the voters, emphasis on personally discrediting opponents, and harsh rhetoric used during the election campaign against journalists and members of the civil society.

The Serbian President earlier lashed out at the international election observers who had noted election irregularities, singling out Viola von Cramon, Klemen Groselj, Andreas Schieder and Stefan Schennach, and labeling them “haters of Serbia.”