The key message from today’s gathering in North Mitrovica was clear: unity is essential in these times, and division is the last thing the people need. In a solemn tribute, citizens once again honored the victims of the tragic collapse of the canopy at the railway station in Novi Sad.
The silent commemoration, part of the „15 Minutes of Silence“ action for the fifteen victims, took place in front of the Faculty of Philosophy. Residents of other northern Kosovo municipalities joined Mitrovica’s citizens in the gathering.
A large banner dominated the event, reading, „Solunski Front Soldiers 1918 – 20th century. Students, pupils – 21st century.“
During the moment of silence, which lasted from 11:52 AM to 12:07 PM, some attendees held smaller signs with messages such as „The people only seek justice,“ „Support for students and pupils from Kosovo and Metohija,“ and „Students, God has spoken.“
Milena Stijović: Supporting the Youth That Showed Us Freedom
Milena Stijović, a resident who attended the gathering, voiced her hopes for real change.
“I don’t want to sound like those making empty promises before elections. I truly expect things to improve now. People must wake up and think for themselves,” Stijović stated.
She confirmed her plans to attend Saturday’s student protest in Belgrade to support young people who, in her words, “walked across Serbia to show us what freedom means.”
Stijović hopes for a peaceful gathering, urging people not to turn against each other.
“The last thing we need now is division, and we must not allow it. Those who need to understand this message will understand it—I am not the only one saying it.”
Organizers Show Support for Students Srđan Đorđević, the organizer of the gathering, confirmed that he will also be traveling to Belgrade for the Saturday protest.
He emphasized the symbolic significance of holding the event on March 12, marking the anniversary of the assassination of Serbia’s first democratically elected prime minister.
A longtime supporter of the student protests, Đorđević distributed badges to attendees, some bearing the inscription “Pumpaj” and others depicting a „bloody hand.“ He noted that students from Kosovo have received words of encouragement from their peers.
However, he also acknowledged concerns about how certain groups have been portrayed.
“It is uncomfortable to hear the way some people talk about them. It’s not a good story,” Đorđević said.
Professor Miketić: Speaking Out Takes Courage
Uroš Miketić, a historian and researcher at the Faculty of Philosophy, was among those who paid tribute to the Novi Sad victims. One of the first faculty members to publicly support the student protests through a petition in December, Miketić emphasized the importance of independent thought in North Mitrovica.
“Even a few dozen people gathering here is significant—it proves that we have our own opinions, separate from the official stance from Belgrade, and that we are willing to express them,” he stated.
He acknowledged the prevailing fear among citizens.
“There is widespread fear—fear of losing jobs, fear of never finding employment. These political instruments can take everything from you. I understand the fear, but one cannot live in fear forever. Still, I believe that any rational and self-respecting person should have been here today.”
Miketić believes that citizens from northern Kosovo should also be present at Saturday’s protest in Belgrade.
“I think it is finally time to say NO to this regime and everything it stands for. But, of course, everyone speaks for themselves. I hope to be in Belgrade, but even if I am not, I know it was worthwhile to be here today.”
He concluded with a powerful statement:
“Being an opposition member or simply standing against the regime in Belgrade from here—it is not just a big deal, it is an act of bravery.”
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