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| Belarus Chief Seeks Tighter Control |
| 2004-02-16 |
| 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 year’s parliamentary elections. Special controls, don’t 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. Lukashenko’s 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 |
| #3 I thought Bush and Ashcroft were the only ones allowed to "stifle dissent"? Nah, rulers of former Soviets who take after Stalin also get a pass. |
| Posted by: Pappy 2004-2-16 10:14:28 PM |
| #2 Silence, Edith! |
| Posted by: Raj 2004-2-16 12:17:55 PM |
| #1 I thought Bush and Ashcroft were the only ones allowed to "stifle dissent"? |
| Posted by: tu3031 2004-2-16 11:23:21 AM |