City Hall bans two extremist marches

Prague City Hall has banned two marches proposed by right-wing extremists for May 1, 2008, on the grounds the demonstrations would promote hatred and intolerance and the suppression of individual freedom. City hall based its decision on expert analysis and police intelligence. The proposals for the marches were put forward by Martin Matička - a figure allegedly known for attendance at neo-Nazi concerts and for having ties to neo-Nazi groups. The organiser can challenge the decision in court. The two demonstrations banned by City Hall had been planned for Prague’s Žižkov district.