BELARUS NEWS AND ANALYSIS

DATE:

23/03/2007

U.S. expresses concern over intimidation by Belarus authorities

The Associated Press

WASHINGTON: The United States expressed deep concern Friday over intimidation by Belarus authorities directed at political leaders, young people and activists from non-governmental organizations.

State Department spokesman Sean McCormack urged the government of Belarus "to allow its citizens to exercise their right to assemble peacefully and express their views without harassment or interference. It is also essential that security forces exercise restraint against demonstrators."

The statement was issued as Belarus' repressive leadership under President Alexander Lukashenko braced for what is expected to be a major opposition rally on Sunday in Minsk, the capital.

Young people crossing the city's vast Oktyabrskaya Square, where the opposition wants to rally, have been stopped by police frequently in recent days.

McCormack also reiterated "our concern for the well being of all prisoners held on politically motivated charges" and called for their immediate release.

Source:

http://www.iht.com/articles/ap/2007/03/23/america/NA-GEN-US-Belarus.php