Branko Ružić, the Vice President of the Socialist Party of Serbia (SPS), has been suspended from all party functions for a period of six months, a decision made unanimously by the party's Statutory Commission.

This decision was taken in response to Ružić's public appearances and his participation in a significant student protest held in Belgrade on March 15. The commission determined that his actions constituted a serious violation of the SPS Statute by taking part in demonstrations against a government of which the SPS is a part.

As a result of this suspension, Ružić will not be eligible for any government positions.

Despite his suspension, Ružić recently voted in alignment with the coalition majority of the Serbian Progressive Party (SNS) and SPS.

Additionally, during a meeting of the SPS Presidency held on March 28, the party made a unanimous decision to continue its coalition with SNS and President Aleksandar Vučić, indicating its intent to participate in discussions for forming a new government.

At the recent SPS Presidency meeting, Ružić expressed the view that the Socialists should remain part of the ruling majority without taking on ministerial portfolios, suggesting an arrangement similar to a minority support role similar to that seen during the government of Vojislav Koštunica, or entering the government under a clear, signed coalition agreement.

Ružić emphasized the importance of SPS contributing to political stability, stating that such contributions should stem from a sense of duty toward Serbia rather than from an affection for the SNS.

He expressed a commitment to de-escalating the political crisis and advocated for dialogue and compromise as the only viable solutions, highlighting that these must be institutional in nature.

He described the SPS Presidency meeting as substantive, noting its almost six-hour duration as indicative of the complex political landscape in Serbia.

Ružić confirmed his loyalty to the SPS, stating that he has been a member for 30 years.

He articulated a stance against derogatory remarks directed at the party from President Vučić, reaffirming his allegiance to both the party and its leader, Ivica Dačić.

Following discordant comments and images from protests, a photograph from the SPS Presidency showed Ružić voting in favor of the coalition’s continuation, which dispelled any notions of his potential shift to an opposition stance.

However, Ružić's deviations have not been well-received by Dačić, who has publicly expressed frustration regarding Ružić's critiques and actions towards the party during media appearances.

The rivalry between Ružić and Dačić has been ongoing for years, with recent tensions notably escalating surrounding the formation of the latest government.

Reports indicate that Ružić has openly suggested that Dačić should resign due to the party's perceived loss of identity.

After holding the position of Minister of Education, Ružić resigned following a tragic event at the 'Ribnikar' school and now remains as a parliamentary member.

In a recent interview, Dačić made a pointed remark regarding the challenges of political discourse, suggesting that engaging in politics is easier from a distance.

Ružić, for his part, condemned attacks on students and professors, claiming that these actions perpetuate societal polarization and attributed these issues to the ruling powers.

As SPS navigates its relationship with the SNS, the responsibility largely falls on Dačić, who has indicated that he must address the complexities of the current political climate on his own.