Proceedings against persons libelling opposition opened in Baran :: Charter'97 :: News

Four independent candidates were running in the last election campaign to local Soviets in the industrial community Baran near Vorsha which has 12 thousands dwellers. Before the vote the unknown distributed leaflets with false and insulting information about the independent candidates. Local policemen refused to receive the collective petition of the four candidates about denigration of their honour and dignity. However, as it turned out now, a criminal action has been brought up against disinformators.

Radio Svaboda called Major of Baran district police department Mikhail Hlebau who started investigatory actions.

“Naturally, we have received documents, and an examination is taking place. An official answer would be given. I rather think it was a violation of the Electoral Code. There are no obvious offences, so most likely Administrative Code would be employed,” Mikhail Hlebau said.

It is worth mentioning that earlier police ignored insulting leaflets. Why investigative authorities have opened proceedings?

“As far as I have understood from the conversation with the major, he had consulted local authorities. Why have they ordered to investigate the case? They seem to be perplexed by the recent statements of the president about orientation to Europe. They want to show that some sort of rule of law exists. I was told: “We have law!” Local authorities are cautious about the future,” a deputy of the city council Uladzimir Mikhasyou said.