Brest: Labor Day action authorized for the first time in 11 years

The May Day rally in Brest was permitted by the authorities for the first time since 2002. On the eve of the event the representatives of the democratic forces who organized the event concluded service agreements with the police, medics and public utilities, which is required for the authorization of mass events.

According to the organizers (activists of the Belarusian Social Democratic Party (Hramada)), the event was attended by about 200 people. Apart from social democrats, there were members of the Belarusian Popular Front, the Belarusian Leftist Party "Fair World", the civil campaign "Tell The Truth", the Trade Union of Radio-electronic Industry (TUREI) and even adherents of the Communist Party of the Soviet Union.

The demonstrators proceeded along the pavements of Masherau and Lenin Streets and then parted: representatives of Communist organizations headed to Lenin monument, whereas members of BSDP (Hramada), BPF and other democratic associations walked towards the fountain opposite Brest Region Executive Committee. The head of Brest Regional BSDP branch Ihar Maslouski held a short speech. He congratulated the present people on the international day of labor and worker solidarity and called on them to join the official May Day events in the city park.

According to the preliminary information, there were no incidents or detentions during the event. However, it was watched and accompanied with many police officers in the uniform and mufti.