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“I am concerned about the numerous reports of police violence against journalists at the demonstrations in Sofia.” This was stated by Dunja Mijatović, Commissioner for Human Rights of the Council of Europe, reported BGNES.
Several journalists were reportedly beaten and gassed in clashes yesterday in Sofia between police and protesters. “One journalist was reportedly detained for hours and others suffered damage to their professional equipment,” it said in a statement. “Violence against journalists, especially by state agents, contravenes the obligation of states to maintain freedom of the press and protect the safety of journalists,” Mijatović said.
I therefore call on the Bulgarian authorities to effectively investigate all recorded cases of attacks on journalists and to punish the police officers responsible for this unacceptable behavior. “Clear and urgent instructions should also be given to police officers to respect press freedom and allow journalists and media professionals to cover demonstrations safely,” he urged.
After 10 pm, clashes broke out in the square in front of the new building of the National Assembly, in the area of the triangle of power. Young people looking like fanatics started bombing the police, while the peaceful protesters who participated in a traditional anti-government demonstration had already withdrawn. Shortly after midnight, the police cleared the square. Around 3.00 am, the blockades were lifted at the capital’s key junction, Orlov Most and the Rectorate. This happened peacefully, the SDVR clarified. Yesterday was the 56th day of protests across the country. Citizens are demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Boyko Borissov, Attorney General Ivan Geshev and the holding of fair parliamentary elections.
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