AMNESTY INTERNATIONAL SETS UP STAND DESPITE LACK OF PERMISSION

( Editorial: --> 7428 ) ZAGREB, Dec 10 (Hina) - Members of Amnesty International of Croatia (AIH) on Wednesday set up a promotional stand dedicated to the International Human Rights Day in downtown Zagreb. The AIH set up the stand even though the Zagreb City Office for Urban Planning had declined to grant it permission to do so. According to a statement by an official of the Zagreb Authorities public relations office, "the only reason why the request (to set up the stand) has been denied is that it was untimely". "Space on the Cvjetni Trg Square has been requested by others in due time, and their requests have been granted", the source added. Two policemen who were on the spot demanded to see documents necessary for the setting up of the stand. After a brief conversation, the policemen left, while members of the AIH continued with their activity. Edin Tuzlak, secretary at the AIH office, told reporters he was surprised at the decision of the city authorities, as the AIH had received permits to set up their stands in the past. "That was allegedly to be the place for the stand of the Foundation for Croatian Children, but as you can see, there are no other stands besides ours, and I also believe there is enough space for all of us", Tuzlak said. If a suit is filed because the AIH set up its stand, the AIH will notify all relevant international institutions, he said. (hina) ha jn 102249 MET dec 97