The March of Unity started on Sunday through the streets of the capital of Belarus. According to independent media, the demonstration of over 100,000 Belarusians took place in front of the residence of President Alyaksandr Lukashenka. The presidential palace is closely guarded by the services. Militia and army units were sent to the city. Armored cars have also entered the center of Minsk.
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As reported by the Polish Press Agency, over 100,000 people take part in the March of Unity in Minsk on Sunday. The march, heralded as another mass protest after the presidential election on 9 August, goes through the center of the Belarusian capital.
“Lukashenka is in trouble. 100-150,000 people have gathered near his residence. Everyone is chanting: ‘Lukashenka – to the police car’, ‘Lukashenka – to the prison toilet’ and ‘Court!’ “- reports Belarusian journalist Franak Vyachorka on Twitter.
The march is peaceful, the atmosphere is calm and festive, with many white, red and white flags in the crowd, in national colors used by the opposition. People came in crowds, despite the rain falling, many dressed in appropriate clothes.
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“The slogan of today’s march is: One for all, all for one” – wrote Wiaczorka earlier on Sunday. Under the entry, he posted a video showing a white and red crowd marching through the center of Minsk. “This protest is to show that people are united in their desire for change, while the authorities are trying to divide the nation,” he added.
Special equipment of the militia and internal troops on the streets
Earlier, the militia tried to stop the march by blocking the roads and making stops. The Wiasna Human Rights Center said at the beginning of the demonstration that at least 15 people had already been detained. Large militia forces were gathered around the main squares and buildings and fences were erected. Near the presidential palace stand, among others military armored personnel carriers BTR. The streets in the city center are blocked off, most shops have closed. Metro stations are not working.
Internet disruptions have also started in Minsk. Data transfer speed deteriorated significantly. One of the operators confirmed that this happened on the orders of the authorities. Instant messaging is not possible, and websites are not loading.
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The Ministry of the Interior warned in the morning that it would stop “illegal actions” and called on citizens not to take part in them.