BPF Vitsebsk leader summoned to police ahead of Chernobyl Way

Leanid Autukhou says preventive measures may be used against him ahead of the Chernobyl Way demonstration. The Chairman of the Vitsebsk Regional branch of Belarusian Popular Front does not exclude that such a step will be taken by law enforcement officials, Radio Racyja reports. On the eve of Chernobyl Way rally, he has been summoned to the police station of the city’s Kastrychnitski district. Leanid Autukhou does not rule out that the conversation will ends up in court and a new jail term.

“We’re always prepared because we are on this path. The regime is also prepared. The occasion will be easily found – however, obscene language won’t suit. When I was detained on March 25, they found some newsletters. They can charge me for that. But in this article does not provide for an arrest, there is only a monetary penalty,” says Leanid Autukhou.

On April 26 Vitsebsk pro-democratic activists are expected to hold a rally to mark the anniversary of the Chernobyl disaster. The organizers seek to raise issues such as the cessation of the nuclear power plant construction in Astravets (Hrodna region), the return of social benefits to all categories of people affected by the Chernobyl accident, and the cessation of agricultural activities in the affected areas. Still, the district administration has not authorized the demonstration.