BELARUS NEWS AND ANALYSIS

DATE:

11/10/2007

Belarusian Authorities Restrict Route Of Opposition March

Viktar Ivashkevich, an organizer of the opposition European March for Freedom to be held in Minsk on October 14, told journalists on October 10 that the opposition has agreed to the march route proposed by the city authorities who officially authorized the event, Belapan reported. The organizers wanted the march to run along Minsk's main thoroughfare, Independence Avenue, from October Square to the National Library. The Minsk City Executive Committee rejected the route, suggesting that the march should start at the National Academy and proceed to Bangalore Square on the outskirts of the city. Ivashkevich explained that since the state media have not notified people about the city authorities' decision, some organizers will be staying on October Square in order to inform potential participants gathering there about the route change. "We hope that the authorities will not resort to any provocations and dirty tricks, and will not put riot police armed with shields and truncheons in people's way," Ivashkevich said. He called on his compatriots to take part to ensure a massive turnout. "The only thing that can prevent people from participating in the European March is idleness or a desire to live under dictatorship. The march has been permitted.... There can be no sanctions or punishment for participation. That is why every person who wants to live in Europe and supports European values should take part," Ivashkevich said. JM

Source:

http://www.rferl.org/newsline/2007/10/3-cee/cee-111007.asp