| Press Statement Adam Ereli, Deputy Spokesman Washington, DC February 23, 2006 Detentions and Harassment in Run-Up to Belarus ElectionsThe United States condemns the continued detention, harassment and fining of Belarusian citizens for exercising their civil and political rights in the lead up to that country’s Presidential elections on March 19. Particularly troubling were the actions taken against the civil society group Partnership on February 21. Belarus officials detained the group’s leader and deputy, raided it’s offices, and seized it’s documents and equipment. These actions intensify already serious doubts about the Belarusian authorities willingness to conduct the upcoming elections in accordance with international standards and their OSCE obligations. The United States calls on Belarus to respect the rights of it’s citizens, to release those detained and to cease harassing those promoting democratic elections. The United States urges the international community to take careful note of those in Belarus responsible for trampling the rights of their fellow citizens.
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