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Protest leader represents a new style of Yugoslav politician
February 8, 1997
Web posted at: 6:00 p.m. EST (2300 GMT)From Correspondent Steve Harrigan
BELGRADE, Yugoslavia (CNN) -- Philosopher, businessman and possibly the next mayor of Belgrade, Zoran Djindjic is considered by many to be the brains behind the protest movement.
With his stylish clothes and short salt-and-pepper hair, Djindjic is something new in Serbian politics.
"In Serbia [we have] old men, very serious in gray suits, who never respected media," said political analyst Mirjan Bobic. "He is young, good looking and very well educated."
Married with two children, Djindjic sees himself as a leader of a new generation of Serbs, those born after World War II.
"I represent a generation that knows about life in the West and the rest of the world, people who want to do everything possible so that we become a normal European country," Djindjic said.
The behind-the-scenes organizer has taken on a very public role in the street demonstrations.
The word most often used to describe Djindjic is pragmatic. His critics say he has no core beliefs, while supporters say his smooth style has kept the protests peaceful.
His changing positions towards Bosnian Serbs was seen by some as opportunism.
"Everybody makes a mistake here and here," said political analyst Milos Vasic. "Djindjic did that mistake by flirting with [former Serb leader] Radovan Karadzic and the Bosnian Serbs in one moment."
Djindjic denies the charge.
"When it was popular to be a nationalist, I was the biggest opponent to nationalism," Djindjic said. "Then, when everyone abandoned the Serbs, I said 'I will not.'"
If the government honors its promise to return election victories to the opposition, Djindjic will become mayor of Belgrade. The man now stopping traffic in street protests will be in the driver's seat, the boss over many of those who are now blocking his path.
Related stories:
- Report: Milosevic recognizes opposition victories - February 4, 1997
- Belgrade protesters defy riot police - February 3, 1997
Related sites:
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- Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE)
- Belgrade History
- The Protest of '96
- Beograd.com
- Yugoslavia.com
- Radio B-92
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