The formation of the “National Brigade” can turn into a mechanism of repression against the Ukrainians, in particular during protests against the current authorities. This was stated by MP from UKROP Vitaliy Kupriy on the air of NewsONE TV channel in the political talk show “Ukrainian format”.
“A question arises: what will happen during the actual protest actions against the authorities? Won’t such a formation turn into a mechanism of repression and beating of activists?” he said.
The parliamentarian has noted that lawyers have doubts about the legality of the creation of the “National Brigade”: “Indeed, there is a law on citizens’ participation in protection of public order and state border together only with the representatives of the National Police. However, it is not clear at all where the term “public formation” was taken and how legitimate it is.”
Vitaliy Kupriy has also drawn attention to the fact that, unlike the law enforcement officers, the members of the “National Brigade” will not even be accountable for the use of force, since they are no means for fixing or identifying a person.
In addition, there is a risk of violating the aforementioned law when drawing up administrative protocols, stopping violators of the traffic regulations, checking citizens’ documents on behalf of the representatives of the “National Brigade”. Even the lawyers with university degree have some difficulties in a proper execution of such documents, not to mention citizens who do not have the appropriate education and were not tested for the knowledge of legislation. This could lead to abuse of authority and violation of human rights.
“I respect these guys, but I am sure that they cannot properly draw up such documents and cannot be given the respective powers. Such actions can violate human rights,” said the MP.
According to the UKROP member, the law enforcement officers should explain the grounds for the “green light” given to the “National Brigade” for patrolling the streets of Ukraine. According to him, the authority to protect public order could be received by the organization that is really trusted by the society.
