Mikola Statkievich Faces Criminal Charges

On 22 March the Investigative Committee of the Main Department of Internal Affairs of Minsk City Executive Committee issued to Mikola Statkievich the investigator's statement that officially brings charges by terms of Article 342 of the Criminal Code – "organization of group actions that disrupt public order, or active involvement in such actions". Mr. Statkievich had to provide a written undertaking not to leave the city. He has no intention of "taking part in this farce", said Mikola Statkievich to the Human Rights Center Viasna. He is not going to give any evidence or familiarize himself with the case materials.

Mikola Statkievich believes that this case has been brought on by the forthcoming presidential elections in Belarus next year.

We'd like to remind you that the criminal case was initiated after the actions of protest against the falsified parliamentary elections and the referendum in October 2004. The case was initiated by terms of Art. 342 of the Criminal Code – "organization of group actions that disrupt public order, or active involvement in such actions". This article provides for a fine or arrest for up to 6 months, or restricted freedom for up to 3 years, or imprisonment for up to 3 years.