Lukashenko Pardons Protesters Amid Dissent

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko has pardoned 30 more individuals convicted for protest activities. Human rights activists report around 1,400 people are imprisoned for dissent. This follows last month's similar pardoning of vulnerable prisoners by the long-time leader, who recently turned 70.

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko has pardoned 30 more individuals convicted for protest activities, according to state news agency Belta on Wednesday.

Human rights activists highlight that around 1,400 people are currently in prison in Belarus for expressing dissent against Lukashenko, who has governed the country since 1994.

The veteran leader, who celebrated his 70th birthday last week, previously pardoned another batch of 30 prisoners last month, including the sick and elderly.

(With inputs from agencies.)