Baranavichy authorities resist public scrutiny

Baranavichy city executive committee banned a rally under the slogan of “Civilian Control for Actions of the Authorities and the Laws of Belarus”. The picket was expected to be staged on January 26 by local trade union activist Ryhor Hryk.

“The pro-active citizens of Baranavichy have repeatedly campaigned against rising prices for life and services, […] for changes in the electoral law, etc. However, officials are not in a hurry to fulfill the wishes of the people. Therefore, with my picket I wanted to draw the attention of our citizens to the fact that the city officials inadequately and untimely respond to requests and suggestions of people. But they once again illegally banned my rally, despite the fact that I not only entered into agreements with the health center, housing department and the police, but also fulfilled all the requirements of the law on mass events,” says Ryhor Hryk.

Moreover, the decision was not reported in a formal reply from the executive committee, which the activist never received, but in a conversation with the deputy chief of the law enforcement and prevention section of local police department.

The trade union activist intends to appeal the illegal actions to Baranavichy Inter-District Prosecutor's Office.