Belarus releases 32 prisoners in Independence Day pardon

Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko has signed a decree pardoning 32 prisoners, including 28 convicted of extremist-related offenses, in a move announced ahead of the country's Independence Day, said Pul Pervogo Telegram channel, which is close to the presidential press service.

The group of those granted clemency includes 20 women and 12 men.

According to the report, the decision was made on humanitarian grounds, taking into consideration the circumstances of the convicts and their families.

All of those pardoned had submitted formal petitions for clemency, admitted their guilt, and expressed remorse for their actions, the report said.

In Belarus, Independence Day is celebrated on July 3 and marks the liberation of Minsk in 1944 from fascist aggressors.

By Vafa Guliyeva