BELGRADE, Serbia — Serbia's populist Prime Minister Milos Vucevic announced his resignation on Tuesday as he seeks to ease escalating tensions fueled by months of significant anti-corruption protests. The protests emerged in response to the tragic collapse of a railway station canopy in Novi Sad last November that resulted in the deaths of 15 individuals, becoming a potent symbol of widespread discontent with the government.

In recent weeks, tens of thousands of protesters, led predominantly by university students, have taken to the streets. They demand accountability and are protesting against the perceived corruption and lack of oversight in government operations. During a news conference, Vucevic remarked, "It is my appeal for everyone to calm down the passions and return to dialogue," stressing that his resignation was intended to lower societal tensions amidst ongoing protests.

The protests, which marked one of the most substantial challenges to President Aleksandar Vucic’s regime, intensified following the canopy collapse, which critics have blamed on government negligence and corruption linked to infrastructure projects, particularly those involving Chinese contractors. In the aftermath of the tragedy, charges have been filed against over a dozen people, including former Transport Minister Goran Vesic.

The political landscape in Serbia is shifting, as Vucevic’s resignation could potentially lead to early parliamentary elections. Serbian law stipulates that the parliament has 30 days to either approve a new government or mandate a snap election. Vucic, who has been accused of suppressing dissent while formally pursuing EU membership, hinted at a softening stance toward the protests, suggesting a willingness to engage in dialogue.

On Monday, prior to the resignation announcement, tens of thousands had participated in a 24-hour blockade at a critical traffic intersection in Belgrade, honoring the victims of the canopy incident. Additionally, the protests have escalated to include wider calls for the resignation of Vucic, who has held power for over a decade.

As part of their demands, students are pushing for transparent investigations into the canopy collapse and the release of documents related to the renovations that preceded the disaster. These calls for accountability have seen support from various societal sectors, including farmers and civil organizations, some of whom have provided protection during demonstrations amidst concerns for safety.

Though Vucic has sought to quell unrest, asserting that he is not intimidated by student protests, the backdrop of violence against protesters is alarming, with reports of injuries from cars driving into crowds and attacks on demonstrators, raising serious concerns about public safety.

As Serbia stands at a political crossroads, the future of governance and the direction of public sentiment remains uncertain. As Vucevic's resignation takes effect, many await the forthcoming parliamentary decisions that will shape Serbia's political future. To read more about the details leading up to this significant political shift, visit Al Jazeera, Time, and AP News.