Serbia’s prime minister-designate Đuro Macut could help ease the country’s ongoing political tensions and serve as a mediator between the government and protesting students, analysts say.
Macut, a professor and medical expert with no prior political experience, was nominated by President Aleksandar Vučić and has until April 18 to present a cabinet and policy agenda to parliament.
Analysts suggest Macut may form a cabinet dominated by professionals rather than career politicians.
“Given his background, I expect the future government to be largely technocratic,” said Predrag Lacmanović, director of polling agency Faktor Plus. “While it may not have a numerical majority of experts, key ministries could be led by professionals.”
Lacmanović said Macut’s academic background and relatively neutral public image could position him as a link between authorities and some student groups, though he warned that a core of protesters is unlikely to engage in dialogue.
“There is a segment that may accept him and show understanding, but the more radical part of the protest movement won’t compromise and will likely continue demonstrations,” he said.
Opposition parties, he added, remain focused on gaining power and are unlikely to cooperate, regardless of Macut’s background.
Political analyst Branko Radun echoed the view that the incoming government may lean toward a technocratic model. “We will see to what extent the cabinet includes party figures versus non-partisan experts,” Radun said.
Macut, an endocrinologist and university professor, attracted criticism during last year’s student protests when he opposed university blockades. He later received a state decoration from President Vučić and was seen as supporting a pro-government student encampment, dubbed “Ćacilend” by protesters.
German broadcaster ARD’s Tagesschau described Vučić’s choice as a “clever move,” appointing an academic loyal to the government amid mass protests over corruption and authoritarian governance.
Macut’s appointment has drawn backlash from student groups who view him as aligned with the ruling Serbian Progressive Party (SNS), with some calling him a “traitor” for publicly opposing their demands.
The future composition of the cabinet and Macut’s ability to navigate political tensions will be closely watched as the April 18 deadline approaches.
