BEIJING — China held a massive military parade through the heart of its capital, but ordinary folks could not watch.
Authorities obsessed with security and leery of any possible hitches virtually shut down central Beijing on Thursday, keeping most people out of eyeshot for the parade commemorating the defeat of Japan in World War II. Residents who live along the parade route received notices ordering them to stay off balconies, keep windows shut, invite no guests and — at some buildings — snap no pictures.
“I am eager to watch the parade, but I understand it’s impossible for everyone to have the chance to see it,” said a Beijing lawyer who identified himself only by his surname, Yao. “I think watching the live broadcast will be a good alternative.”
The parade, presided over by Presient Xi Jinping, featured more than 12,000 troops, 500 pieces of military hardware and 200 aircraft of various types.
