Belarusian Activist Syarhey Kavalenka Goes Home

Syarhey Kavalenka and his wife, Alena, in Vitsebsk after his release

Syarhey Kavalenka's son, Valik, pickets in Vitsebsk in May 2012 for his father's freedom.

Kavalenka's son Valik in Vitsebsk on September 27

Kavalenka and his mother, Lidzia, and his daughter, Vika, celebrate his release by unfurling the banned Belarusian national flag.

Kavalenka and his daughter Vika

Kavalenka's wife, Alena, with their daughter Vika

Kavalenka's mother says he asked for a pardon under increasing pressure from prison authorities, who put him in solitary confinement and blackmailed him.

Kavalenka said he was grateful for the support of the listeners of RFE/RL's Belarus Service.