Solidarity action with independent journalist of Barysau 11:50, 15/08/2005
On August 12 an action in support of independent newspapers “Barysauskiya Naviny” and “Kurjer iz Borisova” was held in Barysau. First these newspapers were denied distribution through the state network, and later it was forbidden to sell them in the streets. Barysau oppositionists demand to stop pressure on independent newspapers. The journalists of “Barysauskiya Naviny” and “Kurjer iz Borisova”, as well as several dozens of activists of the youth movement “Zubr” and the “Young Front”, civil initiative “Volat” gathered in the central square of the town, in front of the city executive committee. In their hands protesters were holding issues of independent newspapers, popular among the inhabitants of the town.
The coordinator of the Council of Civil Initiatives “Free Belarus” in Barysau, the leader of the civil initiative “Volat” Zmitser Barodka explained to Radio Svaboda the aim of the street action:
“This protest is held as a sign of support of our democratic newspapers “Barysauskiya Naviny” and “Kurjer iz Borisova”. We have gathered at the square to protest against the recent actions of local authorities, against the pressure on non-state press. Probably it is done on the order from higher authorities, in order to “purge” the informational space before the presidential elections. The newspapers “Barysauskiya Naviny” and “Kurjer iz Borisova” enjoy high popularity among people. We call upon the citizens to support our protest”.
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