United States concerned about ongoing intimidation by the authorities of Belarus toward NGO activists, political party leaders and young people in advance of a planned peaceful demonstration in Minsk on March 25

Press Statement

Sean McCormack, Spokesman

Washington, DC

March 23, 2007

Belarus Intimidation of Citizens

The United States is deeply concerned about ongoing intimidation by the authorities of Belarus toward NGO activists, political party leaders and young people in advance of a planned peaceful demonstration in Minsk on March 25. We urge the Government of Belarus to allow its citizens to exercise their right to assemble peacefully and express their views without harassment or interference. It is also essential that security forces exercise restraint against demonstrators.

We reiterate our concern for the well being of all prisoners held on politically motivated charges and call for their immediate release.

2007/219

Released on March 23, 2007