Belarusian journalist Paval Padabed's trial on extremism charge started in Minsk on June 28 as the crackdown on dissent and independent media continues. If convicted, Padabed, whom rights groups have recognized as a political prisoner, may face up to six years in prison. Padabed was arrested in January and initially sentenced to 15 days in jail for reposting materials online that investigators claimed were extremist. He was not released after serving the term and was instead charged with creating an extremist group and taking part in its activities. Padabed's supporters insist the case is politically motivated. To read the original story by RFE/RL's Belarus Service, click here.
