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The President of Serbia, Aleksandar Vučić, has announced plans for early elections and introduced a package of economic measures aimed at improving citizens' living standards. In a public address, Vučić outlined his intentions to hold early presidential and parliamentary elections within the next three to four months. This decision comes amid ongoing political tensions and widespread protests against his government over the past 18 months. The president also pledged financial assistance worth over 600 million euros to more than three million citizens, including one-time payments for socially vulnerable groups and vouchers for approximately one million pensioners.

Vučić emphasized that his decision regarding whether he would run for the position of Prime Minister would be transparent and in accordance with the Constitution and laws. He indicated that citizens could expect this decision as early as the end of April. Speaking about economic measures, Vučić highlighted the importance of maintaining policies to alleviate the energy crisis through discussions with the International Monetary Fund. He also announced support for socially vulnerable categories, cheaper medicines for all citizens receiving therapy, and a one-time assistance payment of slightly over 220 euros for recipients of social care and child supplements.

As an additional measure, Vučić promised the issuance of 30,000 vouchers worth 85 euros each to pensioners receiving pensions below 678 euros, which will cover around one million pensioners. He also stated that if inflation exceeds three percent, there will be a significant increase in wages and pensions before the end of the year, adding that inflation is under control and within established parameters. According to projections from the National Bank of Serbia, inflation is expected to reach three percent this year.

Vučić further mentioned that the state will be fully prepared to implement a military service period lasting 75 days, scheduled to begin in May of next year. He noted that military barracks will be logistically and infrastructure-wise ready to accommodate the expected number of soldiers.

In another statement, Vučić declared that he would resign within a few weeks and that Serbia would hold early presidential and parliamentary elections. Addressing a gathering of supporters in Belgrade, the capital, Vučić said he would serve as president for only a few more weeks before submitting his resignation. His second term was set to expire mid-2027. Vučić suggested that his party, the Serbian Progressive Party (SNS), would win both the upcoming presidential and early parliamentary elections, which were originally scheduled for 2027. He proposed naming their candidate list “United Serbia” for the forthcoming elections.

Vučić did not specify when he would submit his resignation or dissolve parliament, which is a prerequisite for early parliamentary elections. During an interview with Reuters in February, Vučić expressed uncertainty about his future after his term ends but did not rule out returning to political life or attempting to become the Prime Minister. He mentioned that while he would prefer to be less involved in politics or even avoid it altogether, concerns about his legacy might require some level of engagement, depending on circumstances.

Vučić also committed to ending corruption within his party and pledged increases in pensions and financial allocations for the poor, along with improvements in public healthcare services. These announcements come at a time of heightened political activity and anticipation for upcoming elections, with Vučić positioning himself as a central figure in shaping the country's political landscape moving forward.