The socio-political situation, security measures, and the functioning of the real economy were discussed at the Vitebsk Regional Executive Committee during a meeting with representatives of civil society
The socio-political situation in the region, security measures,
and the functioning of the real sector of the economy. These and many other topics
became key at the meeting held on
August 17 at the regional executive committee
between the leadership of the region, the city of Vitebsk, and law enforcement
agencies of the region with representatives of civil society.
Everyone has their own view on the situation in the country and how they want to see it. The most effective way to convey the public position to the authorities is a conversation not on the street, but at a round table. The participants of the current meeting followed this principle. The serious tone of the conversation was determined by social unrest and the heated information background, which permeated the theses of the citizens in one way or another.
The main thing united everyone present – preventing the destabilization of the peaceful situation in the state. It would seem, who could be disturbed by people's lives in a safe, independent country? Nevertheless, such forces exist. Therefore, one of the first questions addressed to the authorities concerned the public security measures applied during and after the electoral campaign. The Chairman of the Regional Executive Committee, Nikolai Sherstnev, immediately noted the justification of these steps. Serious provocations were being prepared. Thanks to the coordinated work of law enforcement officers, it was possible to thwart the provocateurs' attempts to destabilize the situation in the region. Satisfaction was expressed with the behavior of the residents of Vitebsk, who during the protests did not commit actions that disorganized the normal operation of life support facilities and infrastructure.
According to the Head of the Internal Affairs Directorate of the Regional Executive Committee, Mikhail Grib, control over the operational situation, the maintenance of law and order, and public security are currently continuing.
Facts about the region:
- In the first days, 700 people were taken to the internal affairs bodies for investigation from the territories of the alleged unauthorized events.
- Currently, all citizens held in temporary detention centers have been released.
- 3 criminal cases have been initiated for organizing mass
Despite this, dissatisfaction was expressed by citizens towards law enforcement agencies, related to cases of violence and abuse of power against detainees during unauthorized rallies. Mikhail Vyacheslavovich explained: law enforcement officers had previously warned people about the unacceptability of such events and participation in them, therefore, when suppressing violations of public order, police officers aimed for the most adequate use of force. However, the head of the Vitebsk police does not deny facts of unjustified brutality, for which he apologized to the detainees and citizens who suffered as a result of the use of physical force and special means. A check is being carried out by law enforcement officers for each of these episodes, after which a legal assessment will be given.
Facts of unlawful (violent) actions during peaceful protests can be reported by calling the Vitebsk Regional Executive Committee's "hotline" (8-0212) 33-61-63 (from 8:00 to 17:00 on weekdays).
Among the issues raised was the topic of strikes. Nikolay Nikolayevich is adamant: such actions work against the interests of work collectives. Now, when some are emotionally charged, it is easy to lose everything. And it is precisely on such feelings that those who actually pursue destructive goals try to play. And what will happen when the emotions subside? The scenario for the development of such events, the head of the region is convinced, is the same for everyone: in an instant, one can thoughtlessly lose what has been painstakingly built over years. This means the cessation of organizations, enterprises, loss of jobs and salaries... After all, most economic entities have obligations not only to domestic but also to foreign partners, and their non-fulfillment
threatens not only the loss of business reputation but also economic collapse. Undoubtedly, strikes and calls for them are one of the tools for inciting aggression and protest sentiments, primarily spread through social networks and Telegram channels. Through them, the leveling technique is also used, reflected in the minds of Internet users, formed over the years of the country's independence. That is why, during the dialogue, some representatives of civil society directly or indirectly showed incomplete knowledge of the socio-economic processes occurring in the region. And indeed, much has been done, it is impossible to list everything. Every year, the region grows with new modern hospitals, kindergartens, schools, gyms, swimming pools, and stadiums. Work is being done to restore order on the land, improve settlements, and increase people's quality of life.The authorities are not against evolutionary changes, but not street protests and without breakdowns. People are already tired of social unrest, fueled by an endless stream of information on various Internet platforms. Everyone wants to live peacefully, work, provide for themselves and their families, and be confident in the safety of their children. The main thing is not to spoil what good we have in our pursuit of a better future.
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The participants of the dialogue agreed that feedback in this format is useful for all parties. Nikolai Sherstnev supported the proposal to systematically hold such meetings if they are conducted constructively and for the benefit of society.
Most questions were answered immediately; others will require time for more thorough consideration and verification. All questions raised during the meeting will be published on the websites of local executive and administrative bodies in the near future.
Official information.