With the fall of Rankovic, Tito put Republican interests ahead of federal ones.

In August 1966, Josip Broz Tito, leader of Yugoslavia, publicly blamed the state security agency UDBA for societal issues, marking a turning point in his political strategy. This decision came after internal conflicts within the leadership, with Tito prioritizing republican interests over federal ones, leading to the downfall of Ivan Ranković, who had previously held a prominent position in the UDBA. The move was part of a broader reassessment of the role and influence of the security apparatus within the country's political framework. The events unfolded during the Brijuni Plenum in early July 1966, where Tito addressed concerns about the misuse of the UDBA. He criticized the organization for its alleged role in creating a system that exerted pressure on society, which he attributed to internal corruption and mismanagement. This led to a reevaluation of the UDBA’s role, culminating in the removal of Ranković, who had been a key figure in the agency. Tito's actions were seen as a response to growing dissatisfaction among the populace regarding the agency's activities and their impact on daily life. Ranković's fall from grace was not just a personal defeat but also signified a shift in power dynamics within Yugoslavia. His removal marked a clear signal that the federal government would take precedence over individual republics' interests. This change was reflected in the restructuring of the UDBA, aiming to align its operations more closely with national objectives rather than regional agendas. The implications of this shift were profound, affecting both the structure of the security services and the balance of power among the republics. Public reaction to Ranković's dismissal varied. Some citizens expressed support for him, viewing his removal as an overreach by Tito. Others welcomed the changes, believing they would lead to a more transparent and accountable security apparatus. Protests erupted in certain areas, particularly in cities like Niš, where supporters of Ranković voiced their discontent. These demonstrations highlighted the deep divisions within the population regarding the direction of the country's governance and security policies. The historical context surrounding these events is crucial to understanding their significance. During the 1960s, Yugoslavia faced numerous challenges, including economic difficulties and political instability. Tito's decision to reorient the UDBA was influenced by these pressures, as well as the need to maintain unity among the diverse republics. The period following Ranković's removal saw increased efforts to modernize and reform the security services, reflecting a broader push for administrative efficiency and responsiveness to public concerns. As the situation evolved, the focus shifted towards implementing reforms that would address the criticisms leveled against the UDBA. These included measures aimed at enhancing transparency, reducing bureaucratic inefficiencies, and ensuring that the agency operated in alignment with the principles of democratic governance. The long-term effects of these changes remain a subject of debate among historians and analysts, with some arguing that they laid the groundwork for future developments in Yugoslav politics and security policy.