**Serbian Prime Minister Designate Presents Government Program Amid Heated Debate**
The Serbian Parliament was the scene of a heated debate on Tuesday as Prime Minister Designate Djuro Macut presented his government’s program and ministers to lawmakers. The presentation marked a significant moment in the country’s political landscape, with many expecting a major shake-up in the cabinet.
**A Majority of Familiar Faces**
Macut’s proposed cabinet features 31 ministers, with a majority being carry-overs from former Prime Minister Milos Vucevic’s government. Notable holdovers include Finance Minister Sinisa Mali and Internal Affairs Minister Ivica Dacic. However, one notable exception is the exclusion of former Deputy PM Aleksandar Vulin.
**Education and Telecommunications Ministers Spark Controversy**
The opposition and public have been protesting Macut’s proposal to appoint Dejan Vuk Stankovic as Education Minister and Boris Bratina as Information and Telecommunications Minister. The two nominations have been at the center of controversy, with many questioning their qualifications for the roles.
**Macut Calls for Dialogue and Reforms**
In his presentation, Macut called for an urgent dialogue with students and deans to resolve the crisis in the country’s education system. He emphasized the need for judiciary reforms based on the constitution, European values, and societal needs. The Prime Minister Designate also reiterated Serbia’s commitment to European integration and regional cooperation.
**Economic Growth and Fiscal Discipline**
Macut outlined his economic vision, stating that fiscal discipline is key for his government. He aims to keep the deficit at 3 percent of GDP, with economic growth projected at 4.4 percent from 2025 to 2027. The Prime Minister Designate also highlighted the importance of EXPO 2027 in driving Serbia’s development.
**A Visionary Moment or a Crisis?**
Macut described his nomination as a “visionary moment” that should bring cohesion to society and resolve problems through institutions. However, many lawmakers disagreed, with opposition MPs criticizing his choice of ministers and the ruling coalition defending him.
**Surprise Support from Within the Ranks**
In a surprise move, MP Miloljub Albijanic, elected on the ticket headed by President Aleksandar Vucic‘s Serbian Progressive Party (SNS), expressed support for protesting students and criticized the government’s handling of the education crisis. His words were met with loud protests from ruling coalition MPs.
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