August 21, Pozirk. At least 16 political prisoners have been released under the pardon program signed by Alaksandar Łukašenka five days ago and covering convicts in politically-motivated cases, the Viasna Human Rights Center reports.
Belarusian state-run television reported the names of Tamara Karavaj, Kaciaryna Leŭ, Natalla Piatrovič and Śviatłana Pałuektava in addition to Vasil Bieraśnieŭ, Ksienija Łuckina, Iryna Sankoŭskaja, Volha Novikava, Ała Zujeva and Volha Stabroŭskaja.
Rights defenders do not disclose the names of other released prisoners for safety reasons.
Karavaj and Leŭ were serving two-year prison terms on charges of defaming Łukašenka and insulting officials, respectively.
Piatrovič, 69, was serving a six-year prison term. Authorities convicted her of calling for sanctions, insulting officials and Łukašenka, inciting hatred and association with an extremist group.
Pałuektava was given two and a half years in prison on protest-related charges.
