Anatol Liabedzka: They again confirm we have no judicial system in Belarus

The case against picketers shows who takes decisions even regarding politically motivated administrative cases.

It became known on Monday that the trial for a picket of solidity with Charlie Hebdo was postponed. The administrative cases were sent back to the police department “for correction”. Leader of the United Civil Party (UCP) Anatol Liabedzka, who participated in the picket of solidarity with the killed French journalists, said in an interview with charter97.org that it was done on the initiative of Lukashenka due to a reaction in the media.

“We didn't put a period to the case. It was frozen. I think it happened because the incident was widely covered both in Belarus and abroad. Lukashenka froze it by force. He damaged the reputation of the Ministry of Internal Affairs and judicial system, because it is an idiotic situation for him,” he thinks.

– Does it turn out that he fears he may be condemned in the world?

– If millions take to streets to protest against terrorism and show solidarity with the journalists and policemen who were killed in Paris, it turns out that Belarus supports terrorism and stands against solidarity. That's how it looks like. So, Lukashenka put a veto. However, I wouldn't make final conclusions.

– Why? Do you think the trial will be held later?

– Lukashenka does with the judicial system whatever he wants. He showed us again that there's no judicial system in Belarus. We also don't have guarantees that a person or an organisation can be protected. I think we should continue the discussion about who is an idiot here.

If we use legal terms, the case was sent back to the Tsentralny district police department for further investigation. It is not closed. It was just returned. If necessary, it will be sent to the Tsentralny district court again.

– How do you explain this turn of events?

– Firstly, it shows that Lukashenka has everything in his hands, including administrative cases. It is he, not a police department or a judge, who takes decisions. Citizens of European countries cannot understand it, but it is a common thing in Belarus. If one has any expectations or hopes regarding our judicial system, if one seeks justice, it's all in vain. You have no chances for justice if you go to court against the authorities.

– What do you expect from the case?

– I did not expect and do not expect anything. I think this is a good cause to continue the discussion about who is an idiot in the country. They show again that all courts, the constitution and all laws are made for Lukashenka. He can choose between doing or not doing something. Our laws are made for one man, for one group, which is about 3-5% of the total population. But it doesn't mean they will work. Everything depends on the current situation and the mood of one particular man. It has not relation to democracy or interests of Belarusian citizens. This is our Belarusian reality. We need to explain it to people, because many are still deluded. We will not put a period to this case. We'll see what legal means can be used. We will consult with our lawyer and maybe go to court to show the essence of the current system rather than to seek justice.

Photo: novychas.info