06 Nov 2019 | 02:12 AM UTC
Greece: Anti-fascist rally in Athens November 6
Anti-fascist groups plan rally in Athens during high profile trial on November 6; heightened security presence and localized traffic disruptions expected
Event
Several anti-fascist groups are planning to rally outside of the Court of Appeal in Athens on Wednesday, November 6. Supporters are being asked to gather at 09:00 (local time) outside of the courthouse. The protest is being held at the same time as the founder of the neo-Nazi Golden Dawn political party, Nikos Michaloliakos, is scheduled to testify in an ongoing murder trial.
A heightened security presence and localized traffic disruptions are anticipated around the demonstration site. Clashes between security forces and protesters cannot be ruled out.
Context
Michaloliakos is being charged as the moral instigator of violence in 2012-2013, which eventually led to the murder of a rapper in September 2013 who was a self-declared enemy of the party. According to the victim’s father, around 60 members of the Golden Dawn party ambushed his son outside of a café and stabbed him to death. The trial has been ongoing for over four years, with almost 70 defendants being charged with various offenses including participating in a criminal organization, assault, and murder.
Advice
Individuals in Athens are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all protests and demonstrations as a precaution, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.
