PEACEFUL TRANSFER OF POWER ONE OF THE FUNDAMENTAL PRINCIPLES OF DEMOCRATIC ORDER

BELGRADE, OCTOBER 27 /SRNA/ – Serbia’s caretaker government has strongly condemned all forms of violence, attacks on institutions and private property, threats to citizens’ safety, and attempts to implement institutional and other changes following the elections through “pressure, threats or violence, outside legally prescribed procedures”.

The Government of Serbia welcomed the fact that representatives of the Student List had publicly, clearly and unequivocally called on their supporters to refrain from all forms of violence, respect state institutions, and ensure a peaceful, dignified and lawful transfer of power in accordance with the election results.

"Elections represent the expression of the sovereign will of citizens, while a peaceful and lawful transition of power is one of the fundamental principles of a democratic society and Serbia’s constitutional order. Anything else would lead Serbia into instability and call the electoral process into question," the statement said.

The government expects all competent authorities to protect citizens’ safety, public order and peace, as well as the uninterrupted functioning of institutions, in a professional, impartial and lawful manner, because no one is, or should be, above the law, but neither should anyone be beyond its protection.

The government called on all citizens not to give in to provocations and to contribute to preserving peace, stability and mutual respect through responsible conduct.

"Political changes must take place peacefully and in accordance with the law. Serbia is a country belonging to all its citizens, and no political difference must be a reason for violence or disrespect for the law and institutions," the statement said.