Beijing to allow Olympic protests; activists skeptical

A mock protester attacks Chinese police officers in anti-riot gear during a drill in front of the Olympic Games Village People's Local Court in Beijing. BEIJING — China's announcement that it will permit some protests at next month's Olympic Games met with skepticism Wednesday from activists who doubt the government will grant the permits they need to demonstrate. Liu Shaowu, director of security for the Beijing Olympic organizing committee, gave the first public confirmation that protests would be allowed during the Games being held Aug. 8-24. He named three city parks to be set up as "demonstration areas" miles away from where most Olympic events and medal ceremonies will take place. "As long as the demonstration has been approved, China's police will protect the demonstrators' legal rights according to the law," Liu said.... [read full story]