Lukashenko's Pardon Maneuver Amidst Accusations
Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko pardoned 42 individuals convicted of 'extremist offences', amid claims that these actions are meant to ease Western sanctions. The opposition exiled members argue that Lukashenko aims to secure relief while continuing to suppress dissent, with over 1,200 political prisoners still detained in Belarus.
In a strategic move, Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko has pardoned 42 individuals previously convicted of extremist offenses, according to the state-controlled news agency BELTA.
While the government remains tight-lipped about the identities of those pardoned, critics argue that these convictions serve as tactics to quash opposition, noting that over 1,200 political prisoners are still languishing in Belarusian jails.
The opposition, supported by the West, perceives Lukashenko's actions as an attempt to ameliorate international sanctions and project a softened image, although the president denies the existence of political prisoners or any irregularities in past elections.
(With inputs from agencies.)
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