Cases against European March closing the way to Europe for authorities

• 25.09.2007, 10:33

Democratic activist Leanid Navitski was guarded to the Partisansky district court of Minsk. Two activists Alina Gladkaya and Vital Tihanovich were guarded there with him. They were detained late at night on 21 September. The militiamen searched there bags and found the informational materials about the European March.

As it became known to Charter’97 press center, Leanid Navitski was detained on September 21 for having the flags of the European Union with him. The activist was kept in the remand jail in Akrestin Street for 3 days. He is accused of the preparation for the European March (Article 23.34 of the Code of Administrative Offences – call for the participation in unsanctioned action).

Alina Gladkaya and Vital Tihanovich spent 2 days in the remand jail in Akrestin Street.

Yesterday youth activist Kanstantin Grahau was detained. He had the stickers informing about the European March. He was guarded to the remand jail and the trial is to be today.

The actions of the Belarusian authorities seem to be strange and inconsequent. On the one hand, they declare the desire to improve relations with the European Union, on the other hand, they continue repressions against Belarusian pro-European-minded citizens.

The opposition suggested the authorities to hold the European March together. Peaceful holding of the March opens Belarus, which faces the economic crises now, the way to cooperation with Europe.