MINSK: Dozens of opposition activists were being held in Belarus on Monday, including a former presidential candidate, following a political rally ahead of presidential elections this summer.
Tensions in the authoritarian ex-Soviet country have ratcheted up since authorities announced presidential elections would be held on August 9. Alexander Lukashenko, who has ruled the country with an iron fist since 1994, has confirmed he will run again.
Rights group Viasna said some 50 people were detained at the rally in Grodno and in other cities. (AFP)
Tensions in the authoritarian ex-Soviet country have ratcheted up since authorities announced presidential elections would be held on August 9. Alexander Lukashenko, who has ruled the country with an iron fist since 1994, has confirmed he will run again.
Rights group Viasna said some 50 people were detained at the rally in Grodno and in other cities. (AFP)