Lukashenko Pardons 32 Prisoners Amidst Ongoing Controversy
The pardons included 28 people convicted of extremist crimes, while Belarus still holds 864 political prisoners, according to the Viasna human rights center.
- President Alexander Lukashenko pardoned 32 prisoners ahead of Belarusian Independence Day, with 28 convicted of "extremist crimes," BelTA reported. Among those freed were 20 women and 12 men.
- Since President Donald Trump returned to the White House, Lukashenko has released hundreds of political prisoners in U.S.-mediated deals aimed at improving relations with the West.
- Despite these releases, Belarus still holds 864 political prisoners, including 21 journalists, according to Viasna human rights center, while authorities claim those pardoned had petitioned for clemency.
- Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya told The Associated Press the release brings relief to families, but cautioned "we mustn't forget that hundreds of political prisoners remain in Belarusian jails, and all of them must be released.
22 Articles
22 Articles
Associated Press News
Belarus' authoritarian leader pardons 28 political prisoners to ease ties with the West
Belarus’ authoritarian President Alexander Lukashenko has pardoned 28 political prisoners, part of his efforts to improve relations with the West.
According to the human rights organization Vjasna, more than 800 people continue to be detained in Belarus for political reasons.
Alexander Lukashenko pardoned 32 prisoners on the eve of the Independence Day of Belarus, 28 of whom were convicted "for extremist crimes".
Their exit was delayed by 3 July.
Belarusian leader Lukashenko pardons 32 prisoners, his administration says
July 1 (Reuters) – Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko has pardoned 32 prisoners, of whom 28 were serving sentences for “extremism”, a charge often used against opponents of his government, a Telegram channel linked to his administration said on Wednesday. Lukashenko has freed hundreds of people to date in return for an easing of U.S. sanctions, but Belarusian human rights group Viasna says well over 800 political priso…
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