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==May 10 : Andijan protest==
On [[May 10]] reports from the [[BBC]] claimed yet another demonstration had occurred, this time in the city of [[Andijan]]. At least 1,000 people gathered to demand justice for a group of 23 young businessmen accused of "[[Islamic fundamentalism|Islamic extremism]]." The protesters, mainly relatives of the defendants, videotaped the demonstration which police did not interrupt. Prosecutors claimed the group they were allegedly involved in, [[Akramiya]], featured similarities with the banned extremist organisation [[Hizb ut-Tahrir]]. However many critics have claimed the trial targets independent businessmen. Scores of demonstrators lined the streets around the courthouse, with women on one side and men on the other. The protesters were reportedly dressed in their best clothes, with the scene peaceful and good humoured.
The incident was not, however isolated. By the second day the demonstration had swollen to over 4,000 residents of the city. Prosecutors had asked for prison terms ranging from three to seven years for 20 of the accused, asking that the remaining three can go free. A relative of one defendant told uznews.net "We are ready to do anything in order to free our innocent brothers."
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