List of political prisoners hits a record high of 1,309

August 25, BPN. Belarusian human rights groups have declared ten more people as political prisoners, taking their total number to a new high of 1,309.

Pavieł Abuchovič was sentenced to compulsory psychiatric treatment on charges of insulting Alaksandr Łukašenka and inciting hatred. Alaksiej Hrycikevič was given two years in prison, and Vital Huzaŭ, five years, after being convicted of the same offense.

Pavieł Babčonak was sentenced to two years in prison for inciting hatred; Uładzimir Rabčanka, to two and a half years for inciting hatred and insulting a public official, and Uładzimir Pradkin, to three years for inciting hatred and promoting suicide.

Ivan Suprunčyk was sentenced to five years in prison on charges of preparing a crime, inciting hatred, and unlawful gathering or dissemination of information on private life. Robert Kuzniacoŭ received the same term for inciting hatred, insulting Łukašenka, calling for sanctions, and abusing state symbols.

Alaksiej Parecki was sentenced to three years in prison for inciting hatred and slandering Łukašenka, Alaksiej Bahdzej, to six years for preparing a crime and mass riots.

The statement signed by the Viasna Human Rights Center, Pravavaja Inicyjatyva, and Belarusian PEN noted that charges of incitement of hatred are “discriminatorily used exclusively to protect the state institutions.” It also said that singling out public officials, police officers, and servicemen as separate and vulnerable social groups is unjustified in this context.

Human rights defenders demanded a review of the sentences with respect to the right to a fair trial and the release of all political prisoners.