Opinions & Interviews
Lukashenko: People cannot be forbidden to take to streets, yet there will be no Maidan in Belarus
MINSK, 9 March (BelTA) – It is essential to create all conditions for a civilized dialogue between the government and the society in Belarus, including in relation to mass events, Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko said at the session held on 9 March to discuss topical aspects of Belarus’ development, BelTA has learned.
“There should be perfect order in the country. Some people say that have taken part in a rally and will do it again. We cannot prohibit people from taking to the streets. You should get involved in this work, because we have failed to do it properly in Minsk, regional capitals and other cities. Allocate places in cities and towns where people could come and express their opinions. High-ranking officials will be there,” Alexander Lukashenko said.
“There should not be any obstacles for the normal life of working people. You know that our ‘maidan fanatics’ went to Kiev to look for organizers there. You understand that these people (participating in mass rallies. – BelTA’s note) will be cannon fodder, the crowd. They go there not for political reasons. Some 300 to 400 people led by our ‘maidan fanatics’ who went to Kiev will try to instigate aggression. They will find 10 to 20 professionals like those who opened fire in Kiev. This will lead to bloodshed and disaster. Therefore, we must do our best to prevent it. I am saying this in public,” the President said.
“We should learn to maintain a dialogue with people,” Alexander Lukashenko said.
“We are not against rallies, demonstrations. We have recently held a mass event at the national level to mark Police Day. There should be places where people could express their opinions. The western countries have such venues. They can come and speak up there,” the head of state remarked. “If they invite a local official, he or she should be there. No one should insult him. Police should record such insults and take tough measures.”
Alexander Lukashenko demanded tough responsibility for violations. “We need to prevent all such attempts. This does not concern people who want to garner attention and those who are in a difficult life situation. We must hold provocateurs accountable with all the rigor of the law,” the Belarusian leader said.
“A maidan will not happen in Belarus. There are no preconditions for this. But it is important to keep a finger on the pulse,” he added.
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