We need to produce a headline per the first part: "Write news headlines. Rules: 1. Under 12 words. 2. Active voice — say who did what. 3. Specific — use names, numbers, places. 4. No click-bait. No

Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić resigned on Monday in Belgrade, ending a nine‑year rule and triggering snap parliamentary elections in late October. The resignation follows a year‑long wave of student protests and widespread anger over corruption and a series of government failures. Under the constitution, a new presidential election must be held within three months of his departure, meaning voters will head to the polls twice before the year ends.

The resignation came after a brutal collapse of the roof at Novi Sad’s railway station in 2024 that killed 16 people. Citizens blamed the Progressive Party, which had overseen the renovation, for cutting corners and ignoring safety standards. The tragedy sparked protests that grew to include students, teachers, workers and farmers. Demonstrators said the disaster was a symptom of a decade of unchecked power, and the protests intensified after police were accused of using excessive force.

Vučić had announced his intent to resign in June and has already said he will stand as the Progressive Party’s candidate for prime minister in the upcoming parliamentary vote. He is barred from running for a third presidential term. The speaker of the National Assembly, Ana Brnabić, will act as interim president until a new one is elected. Vučić also used his powers to pardon 49 people, including 23 students, in a move he described as “necessary for healing the country.” The parliamentary election will pit the Progressive Party against a student‑led anti‑corruption coalition called Students Win and a pro‑Western opposition bloc named European Serbia.

The early elections could reshape Serbia’s political landscape. Vučić’s dual candidacies allow him to stay in power, but the protests and the public’s demand for accountability may force a shift. If the opposition gains seats, it could accelerate reforms and push Serbia closer to European Union membership. If the ruling party retains control, the country may continue to juggle its pro‑Russia stance with calls for European integration. The next months will test whether the public’s frustration translates into a new political direction or simply reinforces the current leadership.