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Belarus Chief Seeks Tighter Control
Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko on Monday ordered the Justice Ministry to strengthen control over political parties, community organizations and unions, a move that may further stifle dissent in this ex-Soviet republic."Mikhail! Did my new boots arrive?" "Yessir! All polished and ready to stomp!" "Every demand by the ministry must be fulfilled," Lukashenko said during a meeting with Justice Minister Viktor Golovanov. "All community associations, parties and professional unions must strictly abide by the rules." Lukashenko said the "special controls" were necessary ahead of this yearâs parliamentary elections. Special controls, donât leave home without them! The Belarusian leader has been criticized by Western governments for holding unfair elections and for cracking down on opposition groups, nonprofit organizations and independent media. Lukashenkoâs authoritarian rule has made this impoverished nation one of the most isolated in Europe. Funnny how authoritarian rule and poverty seem to run together. Last year, the Justice Ministry closed 10 opposition organizations, often citing minor infractions. And major fractures for the violators. Posted by: Steve White 2004-02-16 |
| http://www.rantburg.com/poparticle.php?ID=26339 |