Authorities in Russia's Republic of Bashkortostan detained several noted activists on January 16, one day before a court is expected to pronounce the verdict and sentence of activist Fail Alsynov. Prosecutors seek a four-year prison term for Alsynov on a charge of inciting hatred over a speech he gave at a rally last year challenging government plans to start a gold mining operation near a village in Bashkortostan that would bring in migrant laborers. Alsynov rejects the charge as politically motivated. Thousands of Alsynov's supporters rallied on January 15 near the court in the city of Baimak demanding his acquittal. To read the original story by RFE/RL's Tatar-Bashkir Service, click here.
Activists In Russia's Bashkortostan Under Pressure Day Before Alsynov's Sentencing
Illustrative photo