TALLINN, Estonia (AP) — Nearly 100 political prisoners in Belarus, incarcerated in a severe crackdown on dissent, have severe medical problems and could be close to death, the country’s respected human rights group Viasna said Monday.
Viasna, whose Nobel Peace Prize-winning founder Ales Bialiatski is among those imprisoned in the crackdown, identified 93 prisoners of particular concern who are suffering from cancer, heart disease and other conditions that are being neglected or poorly treated behind bars.
“In captivity, every disease progresses faster, in addition to the lack of qualified medical care,” said Viasna representative Pavel Sapelka. “This is influenced by the conditions of detention — lack of fresh air, poor nutrition, constant psychological pressure and stress.”
Belarus started a harsh crackdown on opposition after large protests arose across the country following August 2020 elections who disputed results gave authoritarian President Alexander Lukashenko a sixth term in office.
Georgia Republicans choose Amy Kremer, organizer of pro
China's Lin edges compatriot Liang in men's last
Argentina wins friendly match as fans give warmest of welcomes in Beijing
Loeb holds off Peterhansel on Dakar Rally 4th stage
Burglar hurled stolen mobile phones at police from the top of 60ft high roof during nine
Rongbao souvenirs fly off shelves in Chengdu
Making a splash: China's village basketball games go viral, benefiting local communities
China's Deep Sea No 1 gas field completes natural gas condensate tank cleaning and inspection
Chinese mainland resumes import of rockfish from Taiwan
Amir Khan's £11.5m luxury wedding venue finally hosts its first marriage: Bride arrives on horse
Beijing 2022 innovates green standard for snow venues