Opposition fails to attract more participants in its events

To celebrate the 25^th anniversary of Belarus’ independence, the opposition organised several events in Minsk. However, unlike the celebration of the Declaration of Sovereignty of Belarus, the 25^th Anniversary of Belarus’ independence was less popular among the population. Party activists and opposition supporters were scattered among different initiative in Minks and regions: the centre-right propaganda picket near Komarovsky market, the BPF rally near the Sports Palace, the unauthorized procession organised by the “Malady Front” and other regional initiatives. Many activities with a small number of participants have created the impression of a larger participation. That said, the authorities also emphasized the importance of the independence and sovereignty of Belarus in their rhetoric and almost did not interfere with the oppositional activity.