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Azerbaijani Opposition Supporters March In Baku


Scenes from today's demonstration in Baku 4 June 2005 -- Thousands of opposition supporters have gathered in central Baku to demand that the government allow free and fair parliamentary elections in November.

The demonstrators convened on Baku's Qelebe (Victory) Square, chanting "Free Elections!" and "Freedom!"

No incidents have been reported.

The march is organized by an electoral coalition made up of three opposition parties -- Musavat, the reformist branch of the Popular Front, and the Democratic Party of Azerbaijan. The Liberal Party has announced plans to participate in the rally.

A previous, unsanctioned march two weeks ago ended with police clashing with demonstrators and arresting some 75 opposition activists.

The international community condemned the government's action, demanding that the opposition be granted the right to demonstrate in Baku.

(Turan/ RFE/RL's Azerbaijani Service)

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