Citizens Tried Under Lukashenka's Decree In Homel Region

A series of strange trials has been registered.

A series of unusual trials is held in Homel region. Citizens are tried on the basis of Lukashenka's decree. "Flagshtok" explains what this may mean.

At least three court hearings where the basis for the proceedings is the decree № 7 of November 8, 2021 are on the schedule of trials for administrative offences in Homel region in the second half of February. This decree № 7 approved amendments to the decree "On foreign gratuitous aid" adopted in May 2020.

The decree, in particular, prohibits the receipt of material assistance for financing political parties, holding elections, meetings, rallies, pickets, production of campaign materials. According to the Decree, foreign donors may be recognised as persons who transferred funds through a non-resident bank and did not indicate in the payment data the information allowing to identify them. Receipt and use of foreign aid by individuals for personal needs is not prohibited by the decree.

Receiving prohibited aid by a citizen is punishable by a fine of 5 to 30 basic units. Repeated receipt of foreign aid within a year after the imposition of the administrative penalty for the same offence is punishable by a fine, or arrest, or restriction of freedom for up to 3 years, or imprisonment for up to 2 years.