Serbian opposition lawmakers caused chaos in parliament on Tuesday by setting off flares and suspected tear gas during the opening of the spring session.
The demonstration was in support of ongoing student-led protests against corruption, which have been shaking the country for months.
Videos circulating online showed opposition members waving flares and throwing smoke canisters inside the chamber.
Parliamentary speaker Ana Brnabic strongly condemned their actions, accusing them of trying to destabilise the government.
“Your colour revolution has failed, and this country will live, this country will work and this country will continue to win,” she declared.
Serbia has been facing growing unrest since the collapse of a newly renovated train station roof in Novi Sad last year, which killed 15 people. The incident fuelled anger over corruption and a lack of oversight in government projects, leading to widespread demonstrations.
Pressure on President Aleksandar Vucic has been mounting, resulting in the resignation of several high-ranking officials, including the prime minister in January.
Tuesday’s session was the first since Prime Minister Milos Vucevic stepped down. Lawmakers were expected to formalise his resignation and discuss a proposal to cut tuition fees, one of the protesters’ main demands.
However, tensions escalated as opposition MPs hurled eggs and water at ruling party members.
Outside parliament, students held a silent tribute to the train station victims. With protests continuing nationwide, demonstrators are planning another mass rally in Belgrade on March 15.
