Rights groups brand 18 as political prisoners

September 1, BPN. Belarusian human rights groups have recognized 18 people as political prisoners.

They are: Siarhiej Boršč, Siarhiej Dziabolski, Juryj Dženžera, Siarhiej Haničaŭ, Jaŭhien Hrycok, Anastasija Huńko, Arciom Zabielankoŭ, Natalla Karniejeva, Siarhiej Ksiendzikaŭ, Dźmitryj Laŭkovič, Alena Łatuška, Alena Malkievič, Ihar Pastuchoŭ, Śviatłana Sakovič, Siarhiej Frančuk, Leanid Čyrykaŭ, Vital Fiesik, and Mikita Saidaŭ.

All were prosecuted for organization of/active participation in group actions grossly disturbing public order.

A total of 1,326 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.