University of Belgrade rector gives statement to police

BELGRADE - University of Belgrade Rector Vladan Djokic gave a statement at the Criminal Police Directorate on Friday as part of pre-investigative proceedings launched against him on suspicion of criminal office abuse.

Speaking to reporters after a two-and-a-half-hour interview at the Directorate in the presence of his attorney, Djokic noted that he had said he was not guilty of any crime, including office abuse.

"That crime is something I have been accused of, as have the members of the academic community, who have been trying, for several months, to articulate and adopt certain decisions initiated by students and supported by professors and citizens of this country," Djokic said.

He said a criminal complaint filed against him was not only aimed against him but also against all of the University's deans, professors and students and the entire academic community.

Student protesters and citizens gathered outside the Directorate's New Belgrade building in support of Djokic, carrying banners and blowing whistles and vuvuzelas.