Seven added to political prisoners list compiled by Belarus rights groups

August 19, BPN. Another seven people have been recognized as political prisoners by Belarusian human rights groups, according to a joint statement published by the Viasna Human Rights Center.

They are: Nadzieja Polkina; Volha Skraščuk; Ina Možčanka; Siarhiej Samul; Alaksiej Maciavin; Hieorhij Hieryłovič; Siarhiej Cyhib.

Charges ranged from insulting Alaksandr Łukašenka to incitement to hatred.

A total of 1,303 political prisoners have been registered in Belarus. The number stands at a record high, but the real figure must be even higher because, according to activists, some political detainees cannot contact them, or do not want to for fear of repercussions.