100 years of Belarus nationhood proclamation: Rally, concert, but no march in Minsk

Only a rally and concert may be held on occasion of the 100th anniversary of the Belarusian People’s Republic (BNR) on March, 25.

“Minsk City Executive Committee want the organisers to submit a new application for staging a rally and concert in the Yanka Kupala Park or near the Opera House. If the authorities have our consent, they will provide sound-amplifying equipment; we will not have to pay for the work of police and emergency services; they will agree to establish a memorial sign to the 100th anniversary of the BNR,” co-chairman of the Belarusian Christian Democracy Vital Rymasheuski said on Facebook.

Earlier, the opposition endorsed a joint plan of celebrating the centenary of the proclamation of Belarus’ nationhood. The event was to start on March 25 in Yakub Kolas Square at 14.00; then they planned to hold a march along Independence Avenue and a gala concert in Freedom Square.

March 25, 2018 will be the 100th anniversary of the proclamation of the Belarusian People’s Republic. It came into existence at the end of the First World War, when Bolshevik forces left Minsk and the city was occupied by German troops. On March 25, 1918 the Provisional Government (Rada) proclaimed the independence of the BNR. After the Red Army re-entered Minsk, the Communist government replaced the Rada; its members had to emigrate.

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