Unauthorized pro-Golunov march to endanger public security - Moscow administration
MOSCOW. June 11 (Interfax) - The Moscow administration has opposed plans to hold an unauthorized march in support of detained journalist Ivan Golunov on June 12 and has urged the prosecution service to take measures against those calling for participation in this event.
"We can't allow people to get hurt. Under these circumstances, an unauthorized march will endanger the safety of hundreds of thousands of people who will be coming to the city center for celebrations," a statement signed by Moscow regional security department chief Vladimir Regnatsky said.
Interfax received a copy of the document on Tuesday.
"We will not allow a violation of the public peace to occur and will take every relevant measure to ensure public safety. These circumstances force us to appeal to the prosecutor general's office for the latter to take measures against citizens calling for participation in the unpermitted event that violates the Federal Law 54-FZ dated June 19, 2004, On Assemblies, Rallies, Demonstrations, Marches, and Pickets," the statement said.
There have been online appeals for unauthorized actions timed to coincide with Russia Day celebrations of June 12, the Moscow administration said.
"The organizers of the unauthorized march have not formally applied to the Moscow government's regional security department. However, they have been invited to a detailed discussion of public security and order issues," it said.
According to Regnatsky, the organizers refused to meet and "suggested a discussion to be aired by a cable channel instead."
"However, a march in the city center with an indefinite turnout (which, according to preliminary estimates, could be large) will create discomfort for city residents and visitors, in addition to major problems regarding provision of public security," the statement said.
In addition, "public events concern the safety not only of their participants but also of all city residents and visitors, especially at the peak of the tourist season," it said.
"Many festive events will be taking place on city streets on that day: Moscow will be celebrating Russia Day. These events were prepared in advance, received every applicable permit, and were announced in the media. Many Muscovites and tourists are expected to take part in them," the statement said.
Event organizers have sent invitations to representatives of over 20 countries, it said.
"Additionally, on that day, the city will be hosting the Times and Epochs festival, which traditionally attracts a great number of viewers and participants. In the city center alone 35 city and five park stages will be arranged, and there will be 400 spots for celebrations across the city, some of them on the route of the unauthorized march. Schools are also in recess, which means there will be plenty of families with children in the streets," the statement said.