Svetlahorsk officials ban picket on rights of persons with disabilities

Civil society activists Yury Liashenka was not allowed to hold a picket, which was scheduled for November 22 at the central square of Svetlahorsk. The activist intended to raise public awareness and to protest against discrimination against persons with disabilities during the renovation of a residential building in Lenin Street.

The authorities banned the picket “the place of the rally does not comply with the decision of district executive committee. The District Executive Committee prohibits picketing on the central square,” says the response.

According to Yury Liashenka, the only place where it is permitted to hold pickets is a stage in the city park of culture and recreation located on the outskirts of the town.

He intends to discuss the ban with lawyers and to fight for his rights and the rights of other people with disabilities.

“Our rights are violated everywhere and systemically. The renovation has been underway for two years with numerous violations. I cannot enter the house, as well as the second floor, where I live. The same applies to the bathroom, and at least another dozen violations. Nobody reacts to my numerous written requests,” stresses the activist.