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Lukashenko’s crackdown on Minsk protests prompts yet another weekend of chaos

8-11-2020 < RT 35 352 words
 

Thousands took to the streets of the Belarus capital on Sunday as part of demonstrations against President Alexander Lukashenko’s leadership, which have now been taking place for 90 consecutive days.


According to reports, around 450 people were arrested as authorities cracked down on the rally. Minsk’s metro network and internet were both disrupted in an apparent attempt to limit the protests. A number of journalists covering the events are also believed to be in custody.


Footage published on Twitter shows columns of police officers setting up rolling barricades against activists on Sunday.



The protesters had reportedly organized into separate marches to head towards the center of the capital, with one group reaching the Minsk City Hero Obelisk, not far from Lukashenko’s residence.


A defining feature of recent months has been the cross-societal support garnered by the opposition movement. On Saturday, several arrests were made at a ‘Medics March’, in which doctors and medical professionals turned out to call for fresh elections. Previous weekends have seen rallies specifically for pensioners and military veterans. 


Also on rt.com Belarus on the brink? Unloved in Moscow, a pariah again in the West & facing protests at home, Lukashenko is running out of road

The unrest began in August, after Lukashenko declared an overwhelming victory in the presidential election, officially securing over 80 percent of the vote. The opposition, and many foreign observers, believe the contest was rigged.


Lukashenko has so far refused calls for a re-run election, claiming he will trigger a new vote only once a new constitution is in place. On Saturday, the embattled leader somewhat ironically spoke out about the controversies surrounding the disputed US presidential contest, saying, “Look at what’s going on [in America]. It is a disgrace – a travesty for democracy.”


Also on rt.com US election is a ‘travesty for democracy’, says embattled Belarusian leader Lukashenko

At least six protesters have been killed and more than 450 injured since demonstrations began.


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