Minsk authorities issue backdated restrictions on canvassing locations

Minsk city authorities have published their decision on the public places banned for canvassing for signatures. The ban covers three of the city’s main squares: Independence square, Victory square and Kastrychnitskaya square. Canvassing is not allowed within 50 meters of the governmental buildings, embassies, prosecutor’s offices and courts, as well as the organizations, which ‘maintain the defense capability, state security and life-sustaining services (public transport, water and energy supply facilities, hospitals and schools).

Though dated 23 September, the decision was published on the official web-site of Minsk city executive committee on 28 September, in violation of the election procedures approved by the Central Election Commission.

‘Human Rights Defenders for Free Elections’