Authorities violating Constitution

• 14.12.2007, 15:50

The authorities ban people to protest against repeal of benefits. Applicants for pickets, which are scheduled for 16 December, are refused to hold actions on different grounds. By banning hundreds of pickets around the country the authorities violate the Constitution.

The site www.ucpb.org notes that if earlier answers received form different governmental bodies were almost the same, this time officials have developed a “creative” approach. So, applicant for action G. Nakhimovich, resided in Lyubimau Street in Minsk, was refused, because the yard of his house “doesn’t refer to objects and constructions, situated in the borders of Minsk.”

Valyantina Palyavikova, member of the Political Council of the United Civil Party was refused on the pretext her house (it was planned to hold a picket in the yard of her house) on Lesya Ukrainka Street is situated on the territory of secure military center. Otherwise, how the phrase signed by head of the city committee Tityankou can be understood: “Holding of mass events at a distance closer than 50 meters to organisation, which ensure defence capability and protection of the country and its population, is forbidden.” Valyantina Palyavikova said the only “strategic site” in the yard is gymnasium, where Lukashenka’s granddaughter studies.

Activist of the “Young Democrats” Natallya Dzyadok was refused without assigning any reasons. Activist of the “Young Democrats” Vital Stazharau received... an empty envelope on his application for holding a picket.

But A. M. Syanchuk, head of the executive committee of village Lugavaya Slabada, has demonstrated the best sense of humour. Referring to the article 6 of the law of the Republic of Belarus “On mass events” he rejected S. S. Pachynkouski in holding pickets “in view of unfavourable weather conditions.”