Navapolatsk City Court: Viasna Member Zmitser Salawyow Not Accountable

Zmitser Salawyow and 2 of his colleagues were detained while distributing leaflets against the third presidential term for Lukashenka. In several days the police drew up a report of administrative offense under Art 172 part 3 (distribution of printed materials without publisher’s imprint). The case was sent to commission for administrative offences of the city executive committee for consideration.

The commission did not invite Salawyow to its session. In his absence they fined him about 40 USD for violation of Art 173 of the Code of Administrative Offences (which deals with purchasing and storage of smooth-bore hunting weapons). Mr. Salawyow appealed the commission’s decision to court. On September 28 the city court reversed the decision of the administrative commission and sent it for re-consideration.