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The country's policemen are celebrating a professional holiday
but their declamations and speeches are devoted to different subjects.
Promising to properly investigate crimes, they were also set to eliminate political conflicts if they break out.
Whom and what do Belarusian police really protect?
As the incumbent Minister of Interior, Ihar Shunevich, was born in Ukraine,
his statement that a Maidan is impossible in Belarus appeared to be particularly topical.
Moreover, his specific proposals were completely out of the picture.
IHAR SHUNEVICH, Minister of Interior
'We are ready to fulfil any order to prevent possible escalting any conflict or aggravating the situation.
All means, wills and skills are at our disposal.'
The Belarusian legislation plays them into hands as well:
recently the MPs have introduced amendments to the martial law, which will definitely broaden police officers' powers.
This year 21 % increase of their wages have been budgeted.
These expenses are expected to be really high because Belarus is one of the world leaders n number of policemen per capita.
But quantity doesn't always mean quality: for years Belarus's police have performed functions which are alien for them.
MECHYSLAU HRYB, lieutenant general of militia:
'Since the 1996 referendum, policemen have been engaged in assisting in achieving someone's political goals'
This often results in beating and torturing the regime's opponents.
And it is not uncommon that nobody bears responsibility for that.
Both oppositionists and ordinary people are victimized.
ALEH HAYDUKEVICH, former police officer:
'From my perspective, the whole system is not vicious, it is the particular individuals who are to blame,
who should be heavily punished, because a police officer must set the example to all our citizens.'
But the Belarusians apparently think different: according to the latest survey, only 30% Belarusians put their faith in police.
ANATOL LIABEDZKA, United Civic Party:
'In my opinion, most policemen would be with people if they had a choice. Unfortunately,
they have no choice today and have to subject to orders remaining cogs in the state machine.'
Do Belarusians agree with the politician? PASSERS-BY:
'They protect the authorities and the main man'
'They protect the people of Belarus'
'Everyone should be proud of the Belarusian. police. I think this holiday is very important'
'They might be protecting the head of state and his goals'.
But their duties are different with a capital D.
MECHYSLAU HRYB: 'They should obey the law, only law,
not instructions and orders from above. If police are guided by the principle 'police for people'
their image will be improved and confidence will increase.'
But for the moment our people has no influence on police which accounts solely to the head of state.
Lukashenka's edicts are regarded as orders and replace any law.
Siarhei Skulavets, In Focus