Goran Vesic has officially resigned from his position as Minister of Construction, Transport, and Infrastructure in the Government of the Republic of Serbia. This decision follows public outcry after the collapse of a shelter at the entrance of Novi Sad Railway Station, resulting in the tragic deaths of 14 people and serious injuries to three others.

On his profile on the social media platform X, Vesic stated that he submitted his resignation “as a responsible person who wishes to demonstrate that in today’s Serbia, moral accountability exists, especially in light of the horrific tragedy” that occurred within his ministry’s purview.

“I leave this post with a clear conscience, proud of the results achieved by both myself and the team at the Ministry of Construction, Transport, and Infrastructure who worked alongside me. I have served with great respect and responsibility toward the citizens, acting solely in the best interest of Serbia,” Vesic conveyed.

Vesic initially announced his decision to resign during a press conference at the Serbian Government, referencing the Novi Sad accident that led to the fatalities and severe injuries. Although he denied personal responsibility for the incident, Vesic emphasized that he was resigning as an act of responsibility.

Vesic’s resignation followed significant public pressure and demands from some colleagues within the ruling Serbian Progressive Party (SNS) after the Novi Sad tragedy. He mentioned that he offered his resignation to Prime Minister Milos Vucevic on the day of the incident and informed the President of the Republic of his decision.

“I cannot allow anyone to point fingers at me, accusing me of causing any child’s death without evidence or reasoned indication, simply because they are permitted to,” Vesic stated. “I became a minister as a member of SNS upon the proposal of Aleksandar Vucic. I returned to politics after a ten-year break because of Vucic, and I will remain in politics as long as he is involved. This message is directed at those within my party who have recently called for me to demonstrate accountability, even though they themselves lack it. I possess both honor and responsibility, and I will work to show how much they lack them. I am proud to be a member of SNS, now and even after stepping down as minister,” Vesic asserted, adding that he expects other officials, directly or indirectly involved in the decision-making chain, to follow his example.