The Belarusian Association of Journalists > Reviews and monitoring > 8 years in prison. Andrzej Poczobut’s conviction is revenge for dissent, says BAJ and demands the journalist’s release

8 years in prison. Andrzej Poczobut’s conviction is revenge for dissent, says BAJ and demands the journalist’s release

8 February 2023

Source: BAJ Press Service

On 8 February, Hrodna Regional Court sentenced Andrzej Poczobut, a prominent Belarusian journalist, publicist, and member of the Union of Poles in Belarus, to eight years in prison. Poczobut was found guilty of encouraging actions aimed at harming the national security of the Republic of Belarus and inciting ethnic hostility.

The Belarusian Association of Journalists strongly protests against this verdict.

From the very beginning, Andrzej Poczobut’s case looked like a reprisal for the dissent and the long-standing public position of the journalist.

Today’s verdict, delivered in a closed session, has nothing to do with justice and is revenge on our colleague.

The Belarusian Association of Journalists demands the immediate release of Andrzej Poczobut and all 33 media representatives currently imprisoned in Belarus.

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