Appeal of civil society activists of the Republic of South Ossetia

We, activists of the Republic of South Ossetia, are hereby appealing to our colleagues from civil society organizations of Russia, the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), and to international community in connection with the current situation in the Republic of South Ossetia.

Within the last week our republic saw a serious aggravation of political situation with involvement of state and power agencies and the civil population.

After the election of the President of the Republic of South Ossetia, the confrontation of supporters of Alla Djioeva with power structures of the Republic of South Ossetia has been on the rise. Let us remind you that Alla Djioeva won the presidential election held in South Ossetia in November 2011. A few days later, the Central Election Commission invalidated the election results. People, who support one side or another, are regularly out in the streets for rallying and picketing.

The political crisis in Southern Ossetia may turn into a civil war. The recent events are a bright demonstration. On February 9 in Tskhinvali Alla Djioeva's office was stormed and seized by OMON (riot police) fighters; Alla was hospitalized with a diagnosis of "brain stroke" and for a certain period of time was in coma; employees of her office were arrested.

We are not calling to support this or that political party, but we are afraid of a violent scenario, which may result in massive human rights violations and casualties.

Already now, on the border with the Republic of South Ossetia lists of persons are compiled, who would not be let into the territory of the republic (journalists, in the first place); activists in the Republic of South Ossetia are exposed to pressure, obstructions are built to work of journalists, etc.

In this regard, we are appeal to you - representatives of civil and human rights organizations - for support and help in prevention of mass human rights violations in the Republic of South Ossetia.

• Firstly, we need help in disseminating objective information about what is happening in the Republic of South Ossetia.
• Secondly, it is necessary to initiate creation of international monitoring groups to supervise the situation with human rights in the Republic of South Ossetia.

If you are willing to support us, please, give us a note to:
sosforcivil.s@gmail.com 

Zema Dzasokhova
Alexander Djioev
Larissa Ostaeva
Sarmat Parastaev
Alan Parastaev
Maria Plieva
Liana Teddeeva
Tamara Terashvili
Timur Tskhovrebov
Vissarion Aseev

February 12, 2012