Thousands protest in Moscow against 'repression' of opposition activists

29 September 2019, 16:26

Protesters gathered in Moscow to demand that opposition activists be released
Protesters gathered in Moscow to demand that opposition activists be released. Picture: PA Images
Ewan Quayle

By Ewan Quayle

Thousands of protesters swarmed Moscow to put pressure on the Russian Government after a summer of protests.

Around 20,000 demonstrators gathered in Russia's capital to demand the release of opposition activists that have been arrested in recent months.

The protest, approved by the authorities, was organised by opposition parties and groups to regain momentum after a series of demonstrations over the summer.

Protesters chanted slogans such as "let them go" and called for an end to police brutality, which they allege took place in previous protests.

During rallies in July and August over 3,000 people were arrested and videos emerged of police using extreme force to disperse large groups.

The actions were condemned by a number of Western governments and human rights groups, who also criticised the move to disqualify dozens of opposition and independent candidate in the recent local elections.

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