Hrodna authorities ban anti-fraud demonstration

On October 20, Hrodna civil society activist Aleh Kalinkou was going to hold a demonstration against electoral fraud and in favor of fair elections. His application said there would be only one demonstrator. The city executive committee considered the bid, but on October 11 the activist received a ban signed by the committee’s deputy chair Alena Ahei.

The decision says that the applicant violated current restrictions, as the event’s route was going to pass through the city’s central square. Meanwhile, the location is closed for public events other than organized by the authorities.

Officials also point to the fact that the applicant failed to comply with the requirements of the legislation, as he did not report all the relevant information. However, they failed to specify what exactly Aleh Kalinkou violated in his application.

The activist is going to appeal the decision to the City Court.