Prominent Belarusian opposition activist Syarhey Kavalenka, whose health deteriorated after a lengthy hunger strike earlier this year, has been released from prison after a request for clemency and reunited with his family in his native city of Vitsebsk. Kavalenka was sentenced in February to 25 months in jail for violating the terms of his parole for a conviction on charges of "illegally displaying" the banned Belarusian national flag.
Belarusian Activist Syarhey Kavalenka Goes Home
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Syarhey Kavalenka and his wife, Alena, in Vitsebsk after his release
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Syarhey Kavalenka's son, Valik, pickets in Vitsebsk in May 2012 for his father's freedom.
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Kavalenka's son Valik in Vitsebsk on September 27
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Kavalenka and his mother, Lidzia, and his daughter, Vika, celebrate his release by unfurling the banned Belarusian national flag.
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Kavalenka and his daughter Vika
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Kavalenka's wife, Alena, with their daughter Vika
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Kavalenka's mother says he asked for a pardon under increasing pressure from prison authorities, who put him in solitary confinement and blackmailed him.
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Kavalenka said he was grateful for the support of the listeners of RFE/RL's Belarus Service.