Mongolia Protests

On July 1st 2008 violent protests broke out in the Mongolian capital, Ulan Bator, following demonstrations against the recent elections.  The opposition Democratic Party claim that the elections were rigged by the ruling Mongolian People’s Revolutionary Party (MPRP), although international observers have stated that the elections were free and fair.

Five people were killed in clashes in the city centre, and police used tear gas and rubber bullets in an attempt to break up the protests.  Several hundred people were injured, and around 700 are believed to have been detained by police.  The MPRP headquarters were set on fire and some government buildings and an art gallery were looted.

The government has declared a four day state of emergency, enabling security forces to break up protests, and will meet with opposition party members in the next few days in an attempt to resolve the crisis.  The elections are seen as crucial for a young democracy that hopes to cut inflation and increase foreign investment in the vast natural resources of Mongolia.

Interserve workers in Mongolia are, as yet, unaffected by the crisis, but ask for our prayers for Mongolia.  Please pray that the situation is resolved peacefully, that Mongolia will continue to be a safe and stable country, and that Mongolian Christians would be able to act as peacemakers in this delicate situation.

picture taken from http://www.mongolianmatters.com