Democrats argue that Chechen referendum is premature
Echoing an article published last month
by Yabloko leader Grigorii Yavlinskii, Yabloko, the Union of Rightist Forces,
the Social Democratic Party of Russia, and the human rights organization
Memorial issued a statement on 17 March arguing that while a referendum
on a new Chechen constitution must be held at some point, it is premature
to do so while hostilities continue, Interfax reported (see "RFE/RL
Caucasus Report," 14 February 2003). They propose a two-stage approach
to resolving the Chechen conflict, in which a formal cease-fire and an
end to guerrilla activities and "sweep" operations would precede
a peace conference at which all factions would be represented. LF
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