Nenad Barac threatened official amid Novi Sad utility corruption allegations

Nenad Barac, the director of the public utility company Novosadska toplana, allegedly threatened Miran Pogačar, an official from the Građanski pokret Bravo, during a session at the Novi Sad Assembly. The confrontation occurred in the assembly hall when Pogačar questioned Barac regarding allegations made by former Serbian Progressive Party (SNS) activist Momčilo Marjanović.

Marjanović previously claimed to BIRN that he was paid by Barac to organize groups of individuals for political purposes, alleging that between 350,000 and 400,000 euros were diverted from the utility company following the collapse of a canopy. When Pogačar suggested going to the police, Barac reportedly responded with a threat of physical violence.

Opposition officials attempted to initiate a motion to remove Barac from his position, but the proposal was rejected. Novi Sad Mayor Žarko Mićin dismissed the allegations as lies and insinuations, suggesting the timing of the claims was suspicious due to their proximity to upcoming elections, while stating that competent authorities would investigate the matter.