During the legally mandated pre-election silence, which began at midnight on June 5 and lasts until the closure of polling stations on June 8 at 8 PM, a gathering of civil activists occurred in the center of Zaječar, Serbia.

This group, consisting primarily of blockaders and reportedly young activists, has been promoting an initiative titled 'Freedom Starts from the East'.

The gathering intensified this morning at the central square, featuring notable participation from both activists and passersby.

Organizers assert that the assembly does not constitute election campaigning but rather represents 'educational and symbolic actions regarding democracy'.

However, many observers consider such activities a potential violation of the pre-election silence, which is intended to create a calm environment for voters to make their decisions.

Critics have condemned this disruption, emphasizing that the number of individuals willing to breach the silence on a Friday afternoon is minimal.

Reports indicate that local media outlets have expressed disapproval of this infringement on electoral decorum, with some asserting that it undermines the integrity of the election period.

The pre-election silence is a statutory period commencing 48 hours before election day, during which any election campaigning is prohibited.

This regulation aims to ensure voters can reflect on their choices without partisan influence.

Regarding media guidelines, political promotion is strictly regulated.

There is a ban on publishing promotional content, interviews, advertisements, or analyses in support or against candidates or political options.

Additionally, the publication of any pre-election public opinion polls is prohibited, and all campaign-related advertisements must cease prior to the silence.

For official social media accounts of political parties or candidates, the dissemination of promotional content must halt as well.

While sharing propaganda content by individuals is a legal gray area and not explicitly prohibited, it may incur penalties if deemed to influence the election's progress.

Paid campaigns on social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube, must also be suspended; political ads cannot remain active.

Compliance with these rules is overseen by the Regulatory Body for Electronic Media (REM), which monitors television and radio operations.

The electoral commission can respond to reports of violations, while police and relevant courts may act upon complaints.

Penalties for breaching the pre-election silence can include monetary fines for media outlets, warnings, bans on further content broadcasting, and potential charges for infractions.