Opposition activist denied picket permit in Masty

Ales Zarembuik, a member of the For Freedom movement's council, was again denied permission to stage a picket against soaring utility costs.  The picket was initially scheduled for February 3, the but the local district administration rejected an application on formality grounds. A fresh application was filed on January 28, seeking to hold an action on February 12. For Freedom leader and ex-presidential contender Alexander Milinkevich was expected to speak at the picket.

Nevertheless, the action has not been permitted on the grounds that the picket could not take place at the site mentioned in the application. The local authorities have failed to offer an alternative site.