KGB brands BNR Rada as extremist group

June 7, BPN. The Belarusian Committee for State Security (KGB) has blacklisted the Rada (Council) of the Belarusian National Republic (BNR) as an extremist group.

The decision is dated July 2, according to the decision posted on its website.

Known as Belarus’ oldest government in exile since 1918, the Rada has no executive powers but plays a prominent symbolic role. It has issued statements critical of Alaksandr Łukašenka’s repressive policies.

Ivonka Surviła, 87, has chaired it since 1997. She has been living abroad since 1944.

In a separate development, on May 23 the KGB also blacklisted regional news outlet Štodzień Homiel with over 1,000 followers in social media.