Alyaksandra Kasko, a 30-year-old Belarusian rights activist who was arrested in early February right after she returned from Poland, went on trial in the western city of Hrodna on November 27 on charges of inciting hatred, mishandling personal data, organizing an extremist group, assisting the implementation of extremist activities, spreading lies about authoritarian ruler Alyaksandr Lukashenka, contempt of court, and insulting an official. If convicted, Kasko faces up to 12 years in prison. The charges stem from Kasko's activities protesting the official results of a widely disputed presidential election in 2020 that handed Lukashenka victory. She has been declared a political prisoner by rights organizations. To read the original story by RFE/RL's Belarus Service, click here.
Trial Starts For Belarusian Activist Arrested Upon Her Return From Poland
Belarusian activist Alyaksandra Kasko (file photo)