04 Nov 2018 | 05:50 PM UTC
Ukraine: Memorial events for slain activist in Kyiv November 4
Activists gather in Kyiv and other cities on November 4 after anti-corruption activist dies from acid attack wounds; further demonstrations possible
Event
Memorial events were held in cities across Ukraine on Sunday, November 4, after prominent anti-corruption activist Kateryna Handziuk died from wounds sustained during an acid attack in July. People gathered outside the Ministry of Internal Affairs in Kyiv at 19:00 (local time) to demand an investigation into her death. Similar rallies were also set to be held in the cities of Kherson, Lviv, Kharkiv, Lutks, and Dnipro. Further associated demonstrations are possible in the coming days and weeks.
Context
Handziuk was a well-known anti-corruption activist and advisor to Kherson’s mayor. On July 31, an attacker threw acid on her outside of her home in Kherson. She suffered severe chemical burns on 30 percent of her body and was undergoing treatment in Kyiv. Officials arrested six people in connection to the attack.
Advice
Individuals in Ukraine, particularly in Kyiv, are advised to avoid all political demonstrations as a precaution.
