Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko has issued a decree pardoning 15 prisoners, just two days before the presidential election. Among those released are people convicted of extremism and drug trafficking. State media described the gesture as an act of humanity and a sign of his presidential powers, BTA reports.
However, the action has not gone without criticism, especially from human rights organizations. “Reporters Without Borders“ announced that they are filing a complaint against Lukashenko with the International Criminal Court (ICC). In it, they claim that the Belarusian regime is committing crimes against humanity targeting independent journalists. According to the organization, since the beginning of the protests in 2020 Nearly 400 journalists have been arrested in the country, with 43 of them remaining in prison.
Lukashenko, who has been in power since 1994, has faced criticism both at home and abroad for his crackdown on the opposition. International observers say the upcoming elections will be heavily controlled by the regime, likely to secure him a seventh term as president.
At the same time, “Reporters Without Borders“ describes Lukashenko's campaign against independent media as systematic persecution and repression. The complaint to the ICC cites documentary evidence of violence, arrests and detention of journalists, which the organization says constitutes a crime against humanity.
The pardon of the prisoners, announced as an act of generosity, is seen by critics as Lukashenko's attempt to manipulate society ahead of the elections. Analysts say the move is aimed at reducing international pressure on the regime, but its effect remains limited. International calls for tougher measures against human rights violations in Belarus continue.