Deprived of Right to Advocatory Defense

On January 8, 2003 there was considered the administrative case against Axana Novikava, charged with violation of the third part of Article No. 172 of the Administrative Code of the Republic of Belarus (distribution of printed edition with law violation). A. Novikava distributed open letters to Aliaxandr Lukashenka where she expressed doubt concerning his psychical health.

Miensk Frunzienski borough administrative commission fined the defendant 12 000 of Belarusian rubles.

During the case consideration Axana Novikava solicited for presence of advocate. The commission didn’t allow it which is violation of Article No. 247 of the Administrative Code of the Republic of Belarus. Axana Novikava was deprived of the right to defense, an unalienable right, guaranteed by Article No. 62 of the Constitution and a number of other legislative acts. So, A. Novikava has a serious reason for complaining against the decision of Frunzienski borough administrative commission and is going to file a cassation complaint soon.

Information Department of PA HRC “Viasna”