14:12 Entrepreneurs stage protest in Minsk

Private entrepreneurs are staging an authorized rally in the Friendship Park in Minsk. Around 500 people, including dozens from across the regions, are taking part.

The entrepreneurs are trying to draw attention of the government to the problems which the small businesses are facing. They are also protesting against the presidential edict, which will ban private entrepreneurs from employing additional staff, effective from 2008.

Initially, the power was cut off, but soon the problem was resolved.

Several activists and opposition politicians, including Aliaksandr Makajeu, Vincuk Viacorka, Anatol Liabedzka, Aliaksandr Milinkevich and others delivered their speeches to the participants of the rally.