One Of Belarusian Oldest Political Prisoners Released

He is 74 years old.

One of the oldest political prisoners of Belarus - 74-year-old Vasili Berasneu - has been released on pardon.

Human rights activists learnt about it from Vasili's colleagues, writes Viasna.

Vasili Berasneu is a leader of Vorsha independent trade union of radio-electronic industry, acting chairman of the REP trade union. Judge Nastassia Papko sentenced him to 9 years of imprisonment in a reinforced regime.

Whilst still in the pre-trial detention centre, Vasili's health deteriorated significantly: he was suffering from pain in his only kidney. The situation was so critical that medication was of no use, and a kidney transplant was needed.

According to human rights activists, despite the pressure behind bars, serious health problems and a pardon, Vasili has never admitted his guilt.

At least 8 political prisoners were released on pardon, among them - journalist Kseniya Lutskina, Iryna Sankouskaya, Volha Novikava (her 35-year-old husband Viktar Novikau was also released on pardon, but on July 3), Alla Zuyeva and Volha Stabrouskaya.

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