Who is who: accused in mass riot criminal case (updated on 9 January 2012)
Aliaksandr Atroshchankau
Born on 22 March 1981 in Minsk. Former student of the Foreign Relations Faculty of the Belarusian State University, expelled for political activities with Aliaksandr Kazulin as rector. Continued his studies at the European Humanities University on the speciality "International Law".
In 2001-2006 he was member of "Zubr", taking part in its events, repeatedly detained by the police and unknown persons. In 2000, during the Freedom Day rally (when dozens journalists were arrested by the riot police), he was seized by unknown persons in masks, put into a police car, then into a police bus which drove somewhere for 40 minutes, during which the activist was threatened to be escorted for execution. Aliaksandr was eventually thrown out of the car 15 kilometers outside the city.
In the 2010 election he was press-secretary of Andrei Sannikau’s headquarters. Detained on 20 January at his apartment. Put into the KGB pre-trial prison and charged under Article 293.
On 2 March 2011 Tatsiana Cherkas, Judge of the Frunzenski District Court of Minsk, sentenced him to 4 years in a high-security colony.
Was pardoned by presidential decree on 11 August 2011.
Dzmitry Apishau
Born on 4 February 1973 in Minsk. Previously convicted for storing drugs. Not affiliated with any political movements. Detained during the 19 December 2010 post-election protest and sentenced to 10 days of arrest. Arrested as a suspect in the mass riot case and released three days later. Still awaiting charges.
Aliaksandr Arastovich
Born on 9 December 1952 in the town of Slutsk. Graduated from the Belarusian State Polytechnic Institute (at present – the Belarusian National Technical University) in 1975. Studied at post-graduate courses in Czechoslovakia, defended a thesis and became a docent. Worked as a professor at the Belarusian National Technical University for 27 years. Had to retire because of health problems. Worked at a building trust. Now is employee of a private firm.
In 1992-2005 – member of the Belarusian Social Democratic Party. In 2001 elected deputy chair of the BSDP "Narodnaya Hramada" founding committee (chaired by Mikalai Statkevich). During the 2010 presidential election – activist of Statkevich’s campaign team.
Detained on 19 December together with Mikalai Statkevich (the taxi they had taken was blocked by the police). Was kept in the KGB pre-trial prison, released on recognizance on 15 February. Officially charged under Article 293 of the Criminal Code. Accoirding to Arastovich, he had three interrogations in the KGB prison, but wasn't confronted to anyone.
On 23 August the criminal case against him was dropped because of the absence of corpus delicti. He received an appropriate document, signed by police captain D.Dyshchanka, by mail. The foreign travel restrictions towards him were removed.
Dzmitry Bandarenka
Born on 28 September 1963 in Minsk. Graduated from the Institute of Physical Culture.
In 1995-1996 worked at the independent Radio 101.2 FM, later closed down by the authorities. One of the founders of the "Charter'97" civil initiative, coordinator of the "European Belarus" civil campaign, a member of the Belarusian Association of Journalists. Was persecuted for his political activity. During the 2010 presidential election – activist of Andrei Sannikau’s campaign team.
Arrested on 20 December at his apartment and put in custody at the KGB pre-trial prison. In late December he was officially charged in a criminal case initiated by the preliminary investigation department of Minsk city department of internal affairs under parts 1 and 2 of Article 293 of the Criminal Code (mass riot). On 4 March the charges to Bandarenka were changed to part 1 of Article 342, "actions that grossly violate the public order".
On 27 April Tatsiana Ravinskaya, Judge of the Pershamaiski District Court of Minsk, sentenced him to two years of imprisonment in a minimum-security colony.
Sviataslau Baranovich
Born on 16 April 1986 in the village of Kavali in the Vileika district of the Minsk region. He is the sixth, the youngest child in the family. Graduated from Praudzina State Building Lyceum in the Pukhavichy district with the qualification of sanitary technician. Works as a builder in Minsk. Is a professional boxer.
He came to the Square to support the candidate for whom he voted, A.Sannikau. Was detained during the violent dispersal of the peaceful rally and sentenced to 10 days of arrest.
Sviataslau is the last figurant of the "mass riot" criminal case. He was detained within the framework of this case only in six moths – on 15 June. He came to the police after being summonsed there by phone. Kept in custody in the pre-trial prison in Valadarski Street. As it can be seen on video recordings, after receiving a blow in the head with a police baton, Sviatlaslau started showing resistance to the police and hitting on their shields.
The trial started on 29 August, but was postponed as only 12 out of 30 victims, riot policemen, came to court. The same day Sviataslau Baranovich was released from custody under a recognizance.
On 12 October Alena Rudnitskaya, Judge of the Maskouski District Court of Minsk, sentenced him to 3 years of personal restraint without direction to an open penitentiary institution.
Artyom Breus
Citizen of the Russian Federation, born on 5 August 19983 in Minsk. He spent his childhood in Estonia, where he is currently registered by the local consular section of the Russian Federation embassy as a Russian citizen. Finished a gymnasium in Tallin and Tallinn European University where he studied design. Lately, resided in Minsk. Single.
Was detained during the 19 December post-election protest rally in Nezalezhnasts Square. Arrested for 10 days and released on 29 December together with other Russian nationals. However, on the same day he was detained in the criminal case under part 2 of Article 293. On 5 January he was officially charged. Was kept in custody at Minsk pre-trial prison #1 in Valadarski Street.
On 10 March 2011 Liubou Simakhina, Judge of the Maskouski District Court of Minsk, sentenced him to pay 10,5 million rubles fine. He was released from custody in the courtroom.
Dzmitry Bulanau
Born on 25 August 1984 in Minsk. Suffers from a number of chronic diseases, including rheumatism, dangerous allergic reactions. Graduate of a medical college, he worked as a male nurse in an isolation hospital for two years, and then – in some commercial medical institutions.
Has profound interest in music. Entered the Institute of Contemporary Knowledge to study sound production. He also learned computer arrangement. Plays bass-guitar, created a music band. He has never been engaged in politics.
Detained and beaten up (head injury) during the dispersal of the 19 December peaceful protest. Sentenced to 10 days of arrest. Stitches were put on his head in the ambulance hospital after he served the arrest.
He was on Nezalezhnasts Square for a short period of time, but was registered by video cameras. On 12 January he was detained again for refusing to turn up for interrogation without an official summons. Dzmitry was declared suspect in the mass riot criminal case and put in the delinquents' isolation center on Akrestsin Street for three days. Then he was later transferred to Minsk pre-trial prison #1 in Valadarski Street and was charged under part 2 of Article 293, "participation in mass riot".
On 26 May Liudmila Hrachova, Judge of the Leninski District Court of Minsk, sentenced him to 3 years in a high-security colony.
Pardoned by presidential decree on 14 September 2011.
Dzmitry Daronin
Born on 19 April 1982. Resides in Minsk, employee of the Minsk Automobile Plant. Graduate of a vocational school. Second child in a family with eight children. Four of them are under age and go to school. The father is disabled and works in the association of the blind, that's why Dzmitry was one of the main bread-winners and helped the mother to raise the younger children.
Not affiliated with any political movement.
Worked as a plumber at Minsk Automobile Plant. Was on the Square on 19 December, but escaped arrest. Was detained on 14 March and placed in the delinquents' isolation center in Akrestsin Street, then transferred to the pre-trial prison in Valadarski Street in Minsk. Officially charged under Article 293 of the Criminal Code on 22 March.
On 12 May Alena Shylko, Judge of the Maskouski District Court of Minsk, sentenced him to 3.5 years in a minimum-security colony.
Pardoned by presidential decree on 1 September 2011.
Zmitser Dashkevich
Born on 20 July 1981 in the village of Kushnery, Ivatsevichy district, Brest region. As a child, Zmitser lived n Russia’s Magadan, then in the town of Staryia Darohi, Belarus. There he finished school #2. Former student of Hrodna Agricultural Institute. In 2001 he joined the "Young Front" youth movement. In the autumn of 2001, he was one of the protectors of the Kurapaty memorial. Then he entered the Faculty of Slavic Studies at Vilnius University.
Zmitser was elected chair of the "Young Front" Minsk city office. Active participant and organizer of numerous pro-dem mass events. Has been repeatedly sentenced to arrest and fined large sums for money for his political activities.
In 2004 he participated in a protest against the results of the referendum on Lukashenka’s third term. Then he was elected chair of the "Young Front". In the 2006 presidential election, Zmitser collaborated with Aliaksandr Milinkevich’s team, being one of the organizers of mass protest rally in Kastrychnitskaya Square in Minsk. In September 2006 he was arrested and charged with "activities on behalf of an unregistered organization" (Article 193-1 of the Criminal Code). Sentenced to 1.5 years of imprisonment. A year later new charges were brought against him for his refusal to testify against a 16-year-old "Young Front" activist, Ivan Shyla. However, under a severe pressure from the international community, the court sentenced him to a fine of BYR 1,860,000. In 2007 he was one of the nominees for the Robert Kennedy Award.
Detained on 18 December 2010 out-of-doors together with Eduard Lobau, facing charges for criminal "hooliganism" (Article 339 of the Criminal Code). Was kept in custody in the pre-trial prison in Zhodzina, then – in the pre-trial prison in Valadarski Street in Minsk.
On 24 March 2011 Alena Shylko, Judge of the Maskouski District Court of Minsk, sentenced him to 2 years in a minimum-security colony.
Anton Davydzenka
Born on 9 November 1990 in Minsk. Former student of Minsk Aviation College. Detained on 19 December 2010 and sentenced to 10 days of arrest. Later arrested as a suspect for two days. Released on 31 December. Still awaiting charges.
Dzmitry Drozd
Born on 26 March 1973 in the village of Drazdy (which became a part of Minsk in 1976). His ancestors lived in the village for about a century. In 1992 Drozd graduated from Minsk Technological School as a specialist in photo technique. In 2005 graduated from the historical faculty of Belarusian State University as a specialist in museum management and protection of historical and cultural heritage.
Worked as a photographer, was kin on science, did research in historical archive. He didn't deal with politics. In 2010 published a great work, "Landlords of the Minsk province in 1861-1900". He was also working over another book, dedicated to the history of photography and the fates of the 20th century photographers.
Was a member of the electoral team of Andrei Sannikau during the presidential election. Served 10-day arrest for participation in the 19 December action. On 1 February 2011 was detained and put in the pre-trial prison in Valadarski Street as an accused under part 2 of Article 293.
On 5 May 2011 Ala Bulash, Judge of the Kastrychnitski District Court of Minsk, sentenced him to 3 years of imprisonment in a high-security colony.
Pardoned by presidential decree on 11 August 2011.
Andrei Dzmitryieu
Born on 17 May 1981 in Minsk, studied at the philosophical faculty of the European Humanities University. Served in the army in 2000-2001. A member of the United Civil Party since 2001, a member of the political council of the party, in 2007-2010 – the head of the international affairs commission of the UCP. Has taken part in the electoral campaigns of different levels since 1999. He advanced from a volunteer to the head of an electoral headquarters. Dzmitryieu was detained by the police for his political activities. In 2007 he served administrative arrest. On 18 May 2010 he was detained together with other activists of the "Tell the Truth!" civil campaign which they authorities tried to dissolve.
In 2005-2009 he had a business, being the head of a consulting company, but decided to close it down not to have any trouble with the authorities, as he intended to participate in the presidential electoral campaign.
In 2010 – deputy head of the civil campaign "Tell the Truth!". During the electoral campaign he headed the electoral team of the presidential candidate Uladzimir Niakliayeu.
Was detained in the night of 19-20 December 2010, after the action of protest in Nezalezhnasts Square in Minsk, and put in the pre-trial prison of the KGB. Received charges under Article 293 of the Criminal Code, "mass riot".
On 3 January he was released under a written recognizance not to leave Minsk. On 30 March 2011 the charges to him were changed to Article 342, part 1 of the Criminal Code "organization of actions that grossly violate the public order or active participation in them".
On 20 May 2011 Zhana Zhukouskaya, Judge of the Frunzenski District Court of Minsk, sentenced Andrei Dzmitryeu to 2 years of conditional imprisonment with a two-year probation period.
Aliaksandr Fiaduta
Born on 3 November 1964 in Hrodna. Graduated from the philological faculty of the Hrodna State University, worked as a teacher. In 1994 he was the head of the Central Committee of Lenin's Komsomol and an activist of Aliaksandr Lukashenka’s campaign team, later was appointed the head of the Public and Political Information Department of the Presidential Administration. In 1995 Aliaksandr joined the opposition, collaborating with a number of independent newspapers: "Belorusskaya Delovaya Gazeta", "Moskovskiye Novosti", "Imya", "Narodnaya Volia". Was one of the founders of the expert website "Our Opinion". Candidate of philological sciences (1997). Literary critic and political scientist.
During the 2010 presidential election, Fiaduta was member of Uladzimir Niakliayeu’s headquarters. Detained on 20 December in his apartment and put into the KGB prison. In late December he was charged with participation in the 19 December mass riot.
On 30 March 2011 the charges were changed to Article 342, part 1 of the Criminal Code, "organization of actions that grossly violate the public order, or participation in them". On 8 April was released under a written undertaking not to leave Minsk.
On 20 May Zhana Zhukouskaya, Judge of the Minsk Frunzenski District Court, sentenced Aliaksandr Fiaduta to 2 years of conditional imprisonment with a two-year probation period.
Ivan Gaponov
Resident of the town of Svislach, Pukhavichy district, Minsk region. Born on 27 April 1988 in Sochi. Russian citizen, has a Belarusian residence permit, residing in Belarus with his mother and brother since 1995. Ivan finished school in Belarus and speaks Belarusian fluently. He has a secondary education. Single.
His mother Sabira Atakishiyeva was born in Kyrgyzstan, his father is of Russian origin. Ivan’s family arrived in Belarus from Latvia as Russian citizens. There were three minors in the family – Ivan, his brother and sister. Their migration to Belarus was advantaged by the fact that Ivan’s father used to have a job in Belarus at the moment, while his mother had lost her job in Ventspils, Latvia. They could not go to Kyrgyzstan, nor could they move to Russia, having no relatives there. Ivan is a former student of Odessa University and a novice writer.
He worked at kilning of production at the ceramic workshop in St. Elisabeth monastery. The mother taught him to find good moments even in hard times. Nuns from the workshop expressed their support to him during the trial.
At first Ivan was arrested on 19 December and sentenced to 10 days of arrest. On 29 December he was released together with other Russian nationals. However, an hour later he was detained in the criminal case under part 2 of Article 293. Was kept in the pre-trial prison in Valadarski Street till trial.
On 10 March 2011 Liubou Simakhina, Judge of the Maskouski District Court of Minsk, sentenced him to pay 10,5 million rubles fine. He was released from custody in the courtroom.
Aleh Hnedchyk
Born on 22 November 1986 in Minsk. Has a secondary education. Single. In 2003-2005, he was repeatedly arrested and convicted for his activities as member of the "Young Front" youth movement.
In July 2003, being under age, he was detained for handing out informational materials of the "Young Front" in Minsk. He was beaten and unlawfully kept at the Savetski District Police Department in Minsk for 15 hours. His parents even applied to the procuracy with the demand to punish the policemen. In 2006, Aleh was sentenced to 12 days of arrest for involvement in the post-election protests in Kastrychnitskaya Square in Minsk.
Detained on 6 January 2011 as a suspect in the mass riot case. Released on 9 January. On 25 March, officially charged with participation in the mass riot. Was kept in custody in the pre-trial prison in Valadarski Street.
On 14 May Natallia Chatsverakova, Judge of the Partyzanski District Court of Minsk, sentenced him to 3.5 years in a high-security colony.
Pardoned by presidential decree on 1 September 2011.
Artsiom Hrybkou
Born on 6 January 1989 in the village of Savashy of the Karelichy district of the Hrodna region. Finished secondary school in the village of Paluzzha. He learned well, wrote funny poems and scenarios for school feasts (he paid interest to them even after finishing the school).
He also studied at the Minsk College of Light Industry. Always paid a great interest to theatric plays, literature and art. He returned home and finished a building vocational school in Karelichy. As far as it was difficult to find a job in Karelichy, he moved to Minsk, where he worked as a loader and pressman. He helped his relatives, especially in upbringing his little sister.
On 19 December, after work, he came to the Nezalezhnasts Square and joined the demonstrators. Was detained near St.Symon and Alena Church and served 10-day arrest for participation in the protest rally. On 12 January he was detained again and charged with participation in mass riot. Was kept in custody in the pre-trial prison in Valadarski Street.
On 26 May 2011 Liudmila Hrachova, Judge of the Leninski District Court of Minsk, sentenced him to 4 years in a high-security colony.
Pardoned by presidential decree on 11 August 2011.
Ryhor Kastusiou
Deputy chair of the Belarusian Popular Front Party. Born on 17 April 1957 in the village of Tsiakhin, Bialynichy district, Mahiliou region. Married, has three children.
Graduate of the Belarusian Agricultural Academy. Worked as engineer and later head of collective farm. In 2002-2004, manager of “Hidrasila-Belaya Rus” Belarusian-Ukrainian joint enterprise. Elected deputy of local councils for three times. Employee of the Saint-Petersburg “Stroikom Ltd.”
Candidate for Parliament in 2004 and 2008. Election agent of Aliaksandr Milinkevich in the 2006 presidential election. Presidential candidate in the 2010 election.
Beaten and detained in Nezalezhnastsi Square on 19 December 2010. Released on recognizance on 20 December. Suspect in the mass riot criminal case.
Siarhei Kazakou
The youngest figurant of the "mass riot" criminal case. Born on 12 February 1992 in the town of Leninogorsk in Russia. Following the divorce of his parents, lived with his mother in Minsk. Finished secondary school #85. Being a pupil of minor forms, he tried to write a book. Was kin on music, took part in humorist and musical contests. Learned to play the bass guitar and the electric guitar on his own, played the guitar in rock bands (he continued playing in one of them till his arrest). It was his favorite occupation, in which he put his soul. He worked in different places to help his mother, who was a single parent. He had a serious intention to enter a musical educational establishment.
Siarhei is an activist of the "European Belarus". Friends call him an honest, serious and dignified man with high moral standards. Was detained on 27 January as a suspect in the "mass riot" case. Was given charges under Article 293 of the Criminal Code and placed in the pre-trial prison in Valadarski Street in Minsk.
On 12 May 2011 Alena Shylko, Judge of the Maskouski District Court, sentenced him to 3 years in a minimum-security colony.
Pardoned by presidential decree on 11 August 2011.
Iryna Khalip
Born on 12 November 1976 in Minsk. Personal correspondent of the Russian "Novaya gazeta" in Belarus. Former deputy editor-in-chief of "Belaruskaya Delovaya Gazeta" and editor-in-chief of "Imya" weekly, later closed down by the authorities.
Repeatedly prosecuted for her journalist activities, received warnings from procuracy. In April 1997 Iryna, together with her father screenwriter and documentarian Uladzimir Khalip, was severely beaten during an opposition rally. At the end of 2009 unidentified people threatened her with murder. Wife of presidential candidate A.Sannikau. Granddaughter of the well-known Belarusian composer Yury Bialzatski.
Winner of a number of awards, including the Dzmitry Zavadski Award (2003), the Henri Nannen Press Award (2005), the Hero of Europe Award (2005) "For Courage in Journalism" Award (2009) and "Russia's Golden Pen".
On 19 December 2010, Iryna was violently detained together with her husband during the dispersal of the protest action in Nezalezhnasts Square and put into the KGB pre-trial prison. In late December Iryna was charged with the organization of and taking part in mass riots (parts 1 and 2 of Article 293 of the Criminal Code). During her detention, the authorities tried to take her 3-year-old son Danik Sannikau to an orphanage.
On 29 December the restraint to Iryna Khalip was changed to home arrest and a written non-leave undertaking. On 4 April the charges to Iryna were changed to Article 342 of the Criminal Code, "organization of actions that grossly violate the public order or active participation in them".
On 16 May 2011 Zhana Brysina, Judge of the Zavadski District Court of Minsk, sentenced her to 2 years of imprisonment with 2-year determent.
Uladzimir Khamichenka
Born on 1986. According to information of the "Solidarity", was educated in the kindergarten in Staryia Darohi and at the boarding school in the town of Rudzensk, Minsk region. His parents were deprived of parental rights when he was four years old. Graduated from Slutsk Agricultural College in 2004. Teachers took care of him, helping to organize his life. It was hard for Uladzimir to study. He doesn't have any relation to politics. According to some information, worked at a construction site for some time. Repeatedly convicted for administrative offenses and twice convicted for criminal offenses, including an attempt of theft on the territory of Belarus.
On 6 December 2010, he was freed on parole. Detained on 19 December and sentenced to 15 days of arrest. Then was transferred to the pre-trial prison in Valadarski Street and given charges under part 2 of Article 293 of the Criminal Code, "participation in mass riot". Was kept in custody in the pre-trial prison in Valadarski Street in Minsk. On 5 May was sentenced to 3 years of imprisonment.
Thanks to the photo, distributed by bloggers, where U.Khamichenka is holding presses his hand to ear, he was called "Earphone" and considered to be a provocateur: it looked like he was hiding a microphone in the sleeve of his coat.
On 5 May Ala Bulash, Judge of the Kastrychnitski District Court of Minsk, sentenced him to 3 years in a high-security colony.
Pardoned by presidential decree on 11 August 2011.
Ales Kirkevich
Born on 11 November 1989 in Hrodna in the family of historians. His grandfather Aliaksandr was a well-known regional ethnographer. After school Ales entered the historical faculty of the Hrodna State University to study archaeology. However, later he decided to postpone his studies if favor of political activity, which he considered to be more important. Deputy chairperson of the "Young Front" and leader of its Hrodna branch.
Participant of the 19 December rally. Detained during the 24 December solidarity picket outside the delinquents' isolation center where his girlfriend, Nadzeya Krapivina, a student of Lublin University, was serving 12-day arrest./ Ales was sentenced to 10 day-arrest. Released on 3 January. On 6 January fined for arranging an election meeting with presidential candidate Mikalai Statkevich.
Arrested on 28 January after a search at his apartment and interrogation by Hrodna KGB, then escorted to the KGB Minsk prison and charged under part 2 of Article 293 of the Criminal Code.
On 5 May Ala Bulash, Judge of the Kastrychnitski District Court of Minsk, sentenced him to 4 years in a high-security colony.
Pardoned by presidential decree on 1 September 2011.
Aliaksandr Klaskouski
Born on 26 September 1978. Finished Minsk school #55 in 1995 and entered the faculty of journalism of the Belarusian State University, later received a higher education in law. In July 1997 – December 1998 served in the army. In 1999 he returned from military service and married a girl from the town of Bialynichy, Mahiliou region. At present the family three children, born in 1999, 2003 and 2008. According to his wife Natallia, Aliaksandr is very compassionate, loving and responsible husband and father.
In 1999 he got employed as a road police inspector at the Leninski District Road Police Department of Minsk. During his military service, he arrested armed car thieves and received a state prize for that. Apart from that, he took first places in sports competitions. However, he was fired from his job in 2005, having the rank of lieutenant.
Aliaksandr was not a regular policeman, he usually spoke Belarusian, tried to draw up reports in the native language and brought "Narodnaya Volia", "Nasha Niva" and other independent periodicals to work. His father and sister are well-known Belarusian journalists. The latter even became a political refugee because of her journalistic activity.
Aliaksandr was detained in the night of 20-21 December 2010 at his apartment and put in custody in the KGB pre-trial prison. Was charged under 3 articles of the Criminal Code, parts 1 and 2 of Article 293, "mass riot", Article 369, "insult of state official" and Article 382 "unauthorized conferment of the rank or powers of an official".
On 26 May 2011 Liudmila Hrachova, Judge of the Leninski District Court of Minsk, sentenced Aliaksandr Klaskouski to 5 years in a high-security colony.
Pardoned by presidential decree on 14 September 2011.
Siarhei Kliuyeu
Youth activist of the United Civil Party (a member of the Young Democrats), a coordinator of the Speak Truth civil campaign. On 17 May 2011 was detained for preparation of protests against the abolition of social benefits. Was repeatedly punished with arrest for his political activities. Siarhei wasn't present in the Nezalezhnasts Square on 19 December 2010. He was detained elsewhere and sentenced to 15 days of arrest. On January 2011 he was declared a suspect in the “mass riot” case. Was released from custody on a written non-leave undertaking. On 2 February he was summonsed to an interrogation as a witness.
Uladzimir Kobets
Born on 7 November, 1971 in the town of Slonim. In 1989 he graduated from the Belarusian State University, department of Geography. Member of the Belarusian Geography Society. Received two diplomas of the Sweden-based Uppsala University distance courses – "The Human Population of the Baltic States" and "The Environment of the Baltic Sea Area". Former employee of the Minsk Regional Institute of Natural Resources and Environmental Protection and the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Protection (since 1999). In 2000 graduated from the Academy of Public Administration under the aegis of the President of the Republic of Belarus with the qualification of manager. The same year he left civil service and became one of the founders of the "Zubr" opposition movement.
Winner of the Slovakian MFA’s medal "For the Personal Contribution to the Development of Democracy and Civil Society". Participant of the first Eastern Partnership Civil Society Forum in Brussels in 2009. Married, has two children: a 15-year-old daughter and a 12-year-old son.
Campaign chief of Andrei Sannikau’s team. Detained by the KGB agents on 21 December 2010. Charged under parts 1 and 2 of Article 293 of the Criminal Code ("mass riot"). On 27 January he was released on recognizance.
On 23 August the criminal case against U.Kobets was dropped because of absence of corpus delicti. An appropriate document, signed by police captain D.Dyshchanka was received by his wife.
On 19 September an article by U.Kobets was published on the website of "Charter'97". There he wrote about the tortures and recruitment at the KGB pre-trial prison. According to the oppositionist, he was unable to write about it earlier, feeling the psychological difficulties he couldn't overcome without the aid of specialists. “I have been outside Belarus for 1,5 months by known... The time has come to give an answer to the question which I couldn't answer while staying in the country: what were the condition's of one's release from the KGB jail? I will say it openly – these are the conditions Ales Mikhalevich said about – a written undertaking about "voluntary" assistance to the security services in the realization of the "constitutional duties"...”
Aleh Korban
Born on 4 February 1985. Finished secondary school #22. Studied at the juridical faculty of the International Humanities Economic University, but was expelled from it for active participation in the national youth movement "Young Front". Is interested in Belarusian history and culture. Worked at the Minsk Pinion Plant, but was dismissed because of the pressurization of the KGB on the administration. An active participant of pro-dem street actions, frequently detained by KGB and police officers and sentenced to arrest.
In 2007, being a member of the "Young Front", was fined withing the framework of a criminal case instigated for "activities on behalf of unregistered organization" (Article 193-1 of the Criminal Code). A member of the National Committee of the United Civil Party. Deputy Chair of the Minsk city organization of the United Civil Party. Chair of the Minsk city organization of the "Young Democrats", the UCP youth wing (elected on 29 January 2011).
During the presidential election he was an active participant of the electoral campaign of Yaraslau Ramanchuk, headed his electoral headquarters in Minsk.
Detained in the night of 19-20 December 2010, after the protest action in central Mink. Received charges under part 1 and 2 of Article 293, "organizing and participation in mass riot". Was kept in the pre-trial prison of the KGB till 7 January, then was released under a written recognizance not to leave Minsk. Was repeatedly detained on 31 January in Minsk, interrogated at the KGB for about two hours and then let go.
On 23 August the criminal case against him was dropped because of the absence of corpus delicti. He received an appropriate document, signed by police captain D.Dyshchanka, by mail. The foreign travel restrictions towards him were removed.
Mikita Krasnou
Born on 26 September 1986 in Minsk. Former student of the Faculty of Law at Belarusian State University. Expelled for involvement in the 2006 presidential election. Currently a student of the Vilnius-based European Humanities University.
Mikita Krasnou was running for the Parliament in 2008 and local council (2010). In 2004-2010 – coordinator of the “Free Belarus” pro-democratic campaign. Graduate of local government courses in Belarus, Czech Republic and the Netherlands. In 2010 – coordinator of the “Citizen” campaign.
In the 2010 presidential election, Mikita Krasnou was election agent of Ales Mikhalevich. He did not participate in the 19 December 2010 events. However, he is suspected of involvement in the rally. Mikita Krasnou left Belarus after an attempted police raid at the “Citizen” campaign office.
Aliaksandr Kviatkevich
Born on 4 February 1987 in a family of workers. He has helped his mother in her work and household since childhood. Kviatkevich finished secondary school #168, and then – a vocational school, where he received the qualification of a joiner and machine operator. He worked at a plant, producing compressors for cars. Is interested in engineering, played football.
He voted on the Election Day and then went to the Square. According to his mother, he said "One needs not just to vote, but also to defend one's vote" before going there. Aliaksandr was detained and served 12-day arrest for participation in the 19 December action.
On 4 January he was detained and placed to the pre-trial prison of the KGB as a suspect. Received charges under Article 293 of the Criminal Code, part 1 and 2, "mass riot".
On 26 May 2011 Liudmila Hrachova, Judge of the Leninski District Court of Minsk, was sentenced to 3.5 years in a high-security colony.
Pardoned by presidential decree on 11 August 2011.
Anatol Liabezka
Leader of the United Civic Party of Belarus. Born on 27 June 1961 in the village of Tryles, Staubtsy district, Minsk region. Worked as a mechanizer on a collective farm in his district. Then he entered the Faculty of French and History of Minsk Pedagogic University, graduating from it in 1985. Between 1985 and 1987 Anatol served in the Soviet Army. Then he worked as deputy head of Ashmiany boarding school. In 1990 he was elected deputy of the Supreme Soviet of the 12th convocation, working as deputy chair of the Commission for Youth Affairs. In 1992 he founded and headed the Belarusian Association of Young Politicians. In 1993 he graduated from the Law Faculty of Belarusian State University. Married with a son.
During the 1994 presidential election, Anatol worked in Lukashenka’s team, later resigning over a row and joining the United Civic Party. In 1995 he was re-elected deputy of the Supreme Soviet of the 13th convocation, working as deputy chair of the Commission for Foreign Affairs. He denounced the 1996 referendum and refused to join the National Assembly after the dissolution of the Supreme Soviet. In 2000 he was elected chairperson of the United Civil Party.
He has been repeatedly repressed by the authorities for his political activities. Anatol has been for a number of times charged with libel of the President. He was beaten up by unknown person in masks.
During the 2010 presidential election he worked in Yaraslau Ramanchuk’s team. Anatol was detained on 20 December by the KGB and put in the KGB pre-trial prison. Facing charges for staging mass riots. Late in the evening of 6 March he was released under a written non-leave undertaking.
A. Liabedzka singled out three periods during his imprisonment. The first and the hardest one was January-February when people in black masks ruled in the pre-trial prison of the KGB. In February there started some slight liberalization and in March the situation became normal, but not better that in ordinary soviet prison. No investigative activities were conducted with Anatol Liabedzka.
On 23 August the criminal case against him was dropped because of the absence of corpus delicti. He received an appropriate document by mail. The foreign travel restrictions towards him were removed formally removed. However, the KGB refused to return his passport for a long time, as a result of which he had difficulties while going abroad.
Mikita Likhavid
Born on 27 May 1990 in Minsk. Finished secondary school #177 in Minsk. Former student of the Faculty of Law at Minsk Institute of Management. His studies were suspended after the 19 December events.
Activist of the "For Freedom" movement. Detained on 19 December in Nezalezhnasts Square and sentenced to 15 days of arrest. However, the verdict was revoked on 23 January. Mikita was given charges for involvement in the 19 December mass riot. He was transferred from the pre-trial prison in Zhodzina to the pre-trial prison in Valadarski Street in Minsk. The day before the trial he was put in a cell with the people who had committed hard crimes.
On 29 March was sentenced to 3.5 years of imprisonment by Natallia Pykina, Judge of the Partyzanski District Court of Minsk. Held a hunger-strike of protest against the unfair verdict. Was repeatedly placed in the penal cell for alleged violations of the prison regime.
Pardoned by presidential decree on 14 September 2011.
Uladzimir Loban
Born on 16 January 1978 in the town of Khoiniki, Homel region. After the Chernobyl disaster, his family moved to the city of Verkhniadzvinsk in the Vitsebsk region, where he finished a secondary school and where he returned after graduating from Belarusian State Technology University. He has lived and worked in Minsk since April 2010. Is characterized positively at work. Single. Not affiliated with any political movement.
According to his relatives, went to the Square after he hadn't been let to vote in Minsk on 19 December – he was told to go to Verkhiadzvinsk, the last city on the territory of Belarus before the Latvian border.
Detained during the dispersal of the 19 December rally and sentenced to 10 days of arrest. Later detained as a suspect in the mass riot criminal case and charged under Article 293. Was kept in the pre-trial prison in Valadarski Street, being deprived of an opportunity to meet with his counsel for over a month.
On 12 May 2011 Alena Shylko, Judge of the Maskouski District Courto of Minsk, sentenced to 3 years in a minimum-security colony.
Pardoned by presidential decree on 14 September 2011.
Eduard Lobau
Born on 1 December 1988 in Vilnius. Finished secondary school #219 and vocational school #38 (on the speciality "operation of test instruments" in Minsk. He dreamed of pursuing a military career since the 8th grade.
Served in the special unit of Vitsebsk paratroops, where he met a "Young Front" Homel activist and later became member of the movement. Former chairperson of the "Young Front" Minsk office. He is still planning to become a professional officer and dreams of reviving the Belarusian army.
Detained on 18 December together with the "Young Front" leader Zmitser Dashkevich. Charged under part 3 of Article 339 of the Criminal Code ("hooliganism"). While in Zhodzina penal colony, he refused to testify against "Young Front" activists and was threatened with violence.
On 24 March 2011 Alena Shylko, Judge of the Maskouski District Court of Minsk, sentenced him to 4 years in a high-security colony.
Aliaksandr Malchanau
Born on 22 June 1988 in Barysau. Finished School #22. Former member of the "Zubr" youth opposition movement. His mother was reportedly dismissed from work for her son’s political activity. Aliaksandr had to become a house painter, then entered Minsk International Humanities and Economics Institute. His mother is retired now.
Aliaksandr was detained on 6 January in Barysau. He was charged with participation in a mass riot, (part 2 of Article 293 of the Criminal Code). Was kept in custody in the pre-trial prison of the KGB in Minsk.
On 2 March 2011 Tatsiana Cherkas, Judge of the Frunzenski District Court of Minsk, sentenced him to 3 years in high-security colony.
Pardoned by presidential decree on 14 September 2011.
Siarhei Martsaleu
Born on 29 May 1977 in Minsk in the family of scientists. Grandson of Stanislau Martsaleu, head of the Institute of Art Theory and History, Ethnography and Folklore of the Academy of Sciences, and Leanid Yaumenau, philosophy academician.
Former student of the Foreign Relations Faculty of the Belarusian State University, expelled with Aliaksandr Kazulin as rector. However, later he became Kazulin’s associate. In mid-1990s he was elected chair of the "Young Hramada" (the youth wing of Mikalai Statkevich’s Belarusian Social Democratic Party) and refused from studying in Moscow for pursuing this career. Later he left for Poland to receive a degree in political studies at Poznan University.
In the 2010 presidential election, he was campaign chief of Mikalai Statkevich. He participated in the 19 December protest for a short time. Siarhei was detained on a train to Warsaw (where he was going to appear in a program of the "BelSat" TV channel) and put into the KGB pre-trial prison. Initially charged under Article 293. On 4 March the charges were changed to Article 342 of the Criminal Code, "organization of actions that grossly violate the public order or active participation in them".
On 16 May 2011 Zhana Brysina, Judge of the Zavadski District Court of Minsk, sentenced him to two years of conditional imprisonment with a two-year probation period.
Vital Matsukevich
23 years old. Studied at the Belarusian State Enonomic University, getting ready for receiving his diploma. Lecturers and classmates characterized him only positively. Vital was going to get married in summer.
Detained on 21 March as a suspect in the "mass riot" criminal case. On 4 April the preliminary investigation board of the Main Police Bureau of the Minsk City Executive Committee stated that charges were given to him. Was kept in custody in the pre-trial prison of the KGB.
On 12 May 2011 Alena Shylko, Judge of the Maskouski District Court of Minsk, sentenced him to 3 years in a high-security colony.
Pardoned by presidential decree on 11 August 2011.
Andrei Mikalayeu
Born on 12 April 1975 in Minsk. In 1994, he was charged with robbery, convicted and sent to prison, where he contracted TB. In 2001, he was convicted of infliction of injuries, while resisting robbery. Andrei has been engaged in a redecoration business since 2006. He was not detained on 19 December. However, on 11 January his residence was searched and Andrei was arrested for three days. He then was questioned by military counterintelligence and released on recognizance. Still awaiting charges in the case.
Aliaksei Mikhalevich
Born on 15 May 1975 in Minsk in the family of scientists. Student of Minsk school #19 and the Belarusian Humanities Lyceum. In 1997 he graduated from the Faculty of Law of the Belarusian State University. During his studies, he was head of the Association of Belarusian Students (an organization that protects the rights of Belarusian students). Attended the internship courses at Warsaw University and Oxford University. Brings up two daughters, born in 2000 and 2009, together with his wife Milana, a teacher of the English language.
Since 1997 he was engaged in youth exchange and tourism projects, since 2000 employed as a manager in the "Arcadia" travel agency. Left his job after seven inspections, following his participation in the 2004 parliamentary elections. Since 2005 he has been accredited by the Ministry of Economics as an anti-recession manager. In 2007-2008 he worked as legal counsel at the Soviet-Afghan War Disabled Veterans Association, in 2008-2010 – as a legal counsel at Belarusian Independent Trade Union. Fluent in four foreign languages.
Between 2003 and 2007 he was deputy of Pukhavichy district council and coordinator of the Local Council Deputies Assembly. Former editor of the "Rehiyon" independent newspaper, issued in the town of Mar’ina Horka, Minsk region. Initiator of a number of decisions for the accretion of power of local self-government bodies. In 2004-2008 – deputy chair of the Belarusian Popular Front Party. In 2008 he was nominated for the post of the Party’s chair, but was expelled for public criticism of its leaders. In 2010 he launched a new movement "For Modernization".
A candidate at the presidential election-2010. Detained on 20 December in his apartment for participation in the 19 December protest and put into custody in the KGB pre-trial prison. Charged under Article 293 ("mass riot").
On 19 January Aliaksei was released on recognizance. On 28 February 2011 Aliaksei made a public statement that he had to sign a cooperation agreement with the KGB in order to be released from jail, and that he was tortured at the pre-trial prison of the KGB, which he called a concentration camp in the center of Minsk. He also filed appropriate appeals with the General Procuracy of Belarusian and the UN Human Rights Committee. During the press-conference A.Mikhalevich also emphasized that he considered the disclosure of this information as cessation of the cooperation agreement with the KGB. His confession and statement had a wide public response.
Aliaksei Mikhalevich received a summons to KGB for 12 a.m. on 14 March. However, as it became known that morning, he had secretly left the country. On 24 March the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Czech Republic confirmed that he had received political asylum in the country.
Dzmitry Miadzvedz
Born on 16 January 1960 in Minsk. Received a degree in power engineering at Minsk Polytechnic Institute. Former employee of the Institute, he later worked in construction industry. Many of Minsk’s famous buildings were constructed with Dzmitry’s assistance, e.g. the Sun Valley recreation park. He has recently launched his own business in repairing, its future being currently at risk due to Dzmitry’s arrests. He has a wife and two sons.
Dzmitry is not affiliated with any political parties or movements. He was detained in Nezalezhnasts Square on 19 December together with his elder son (from the first marriage) and sentenced to 10 days in prison. After that he was once again detained in the mass riot criminal case. On 6 January he was charged under parts 1 and 2 of Article 293 of the Criminal Code. Was kept in custody in the pre-trial prison in Valadarski Street in Minsk.
On 10 March Alena Rudnitskaya, Judge of the Maskouski District Court of Minsk, sentenced him to 3 years of personal restraint without direction to an open penitentiary institution.
Fiodar Mirzayanau
Born on 9 December 1990 in the town of Baranavichy in the Brest region. Finished a gymnasium. During his study there he was an active participant of educational contests in history, computer science and geography that were held in the town, the region and the country. In 2008 he entered the faculty of management at the Belarusian State Economic University. During his study there he paid interest to models of economic development of the country. He also took part in a scientific-practical student conference. Fiodar is kin on tourism, bicycle sport and literature. One of his favorite writers is Lev Gumilyov.
Following the protest rally of 19 December he served 15-day arrest in the pre-trial prison in Zhodzina. On 25 January 2011 he was summonsed for an interrogation and given charges under parts 1 and 2 of Article 293 of the Criminal Code, "mass riot". Was kept in custody in the pre-trial prison in Valadarski Street in Minsk.
On 14 May 2011 Natallia Chatsvertakova, Judge of the Partyzanski District Court of Minsk, sentenced him to 3 years in a high-security colony.
Pardoned by presidential decree on 14 September 2011.
Leanid Navitski
Born on 21 March 1973 in the town of Barysau. Graduate of the Physical Culture Academy. Former activist of the “Zubr” youth opposition movement. Currently, activist of the “European Belarus” civil campaign. Repeatedly detained, fined and arrested by the police for his political activity.
During the 2010 presidential election, Leanid Navitski was activist of Andrei Sannikau’s campaign team and his personal bodyguard. Detained on 19 December together with Andrei Sannikau and Iryna Khalip, sentenced to 15 days of administrative arrest. Charged under Par. 1 and 2 Art. 293 of the Criminal Code. Currently abroad.
Uladzimir Niakliayeu
Born on 11 July 1946 in the town of Smarhon, where he finished school №1. In 1961-1966 he was a student at Higher State Communications College, in 1973 he graduated from the department of philology at Minsk Pedagogical Institute. In 1971 he entered the department of poetry at Moscow Literature Institute. Uladzimir worked in Vladivostok, Taishet, and Norilsk. Upon his return to Minsk, he worked as a literature counsel in the newspaper "Znamya Yunosti" (1972-1975), editor of bulletin "Theatrical Minsk" (1975-1987).
In 1978 he became member of the USSR Union of Writers, collaborated with the Belarusian state TV, in 1987-1998 he was chief editor of one of the most popular periodicals of the time – magazine "Krynitsa". He was also chief editor of weekly edition "Litaratura i Mastatstva". In 1998-2001 Uladzimir was chair of the Union of Belarusian Writers. At a Union’s meeting in 2001, he suggested adopting a resolution declaring President Lukashenka an usurper, not eligible for running in the future elections.
In 199 he left Belarus due to political reasons and settled in Poland. In 2003 he returned to Belarus. In 2005-2009 he was chair of the Belarusian Council of PEN-Center.
He is well-known for numerous collections of poetry and song lyrics. Between 1979 and 2009 he received many awards for his poetry. On 17 February was nominated for Nobel Prize at the general assembly of PEN-center.
In 2010 Niakliayeu initiated the creation of the civil campaign "Tell the Truth!", later denied registration by the authorities, and became a presidential candidate. One of the leaders of the 2010 presidential campaign.
On 19 December he was badly beaten and lost consciousness on his way to a peaceful protest rally. He was taken to hospital with a brain injury. A few hours later he was kidnapped by the secret service agents, while on a drip. His whereabouts and state of health remained unknown for a long time.
The violent detention was abrupt: being unable to walk, he was ragged to a car in a blanket. He was later found in the KGB pre-trial prison, where he was kept on charges in mass rioting. There he suffered four hypertonic crises and had no opportunities to meet with a lawyer. On 29 January he released from prison and put under house arrest.
On 30 March the charges were changed to Article 342 of the Criminal Code, "organization and preparation of actions that grossly violate the public order, or active participation in them".
On 20 May 2011 Zhana Zhukouskaya, Judge of the Frunzenski District Court of Minsk, sentenced him to 2 years of imprisonment with two-year determent.
Dzmitry Novik
Born on 16 September 1981 in Baranavichy. Finished School #13. According to his mother, he was one of the best pupils and had an excellent command of English. However, he didn't manage to enter Minsk State Linguistic University. Instead, he studied in Minsk Physical Culture Academy and eventually was called up to the army. After this he spent a year working in the US with his friends, working at cruise ships. His family consists of mother and grandmother, both of whom are ill, and a younger brother.
After his return home Dzmitry used to work as a driver at the Unite Arab Emirates embassy and a security guard at the "Crown Plaza" restaurant.
Aliaksandr has always been keen on sports, paying little attention to politics. He had never taken part in protest actions before 19 December. He came to the Square to express his civil position and faith in changes.
Detained on 23 December 2010 in Baranavichy as a suspect in the mass riot criminal case (part 2 of Article 293). Was kept in custody of the KGB pre-trial prison in Minsk.
On 2 March 2011 Tatsiana Cherkas, Judge of the Frunzenski District Court of Minsk, sentenced him to 3.5 years in a high-security colony.
Pardoned by presidential decree on 14 September 2011.
Anastasia (Nasta) Palazhanka
Born on 2 August 1990 in Minsk. In 1997-2008 attended Schools # 73 (with intensive study of the German languge) and #37 (with aesthetic specialization). In 2008 she entered the Philosophy and Political Studies Faculty of the European Humanities University.
Member of the "Young Front" since 2004. Was elected deputy chairperson of the organization in 2008. She has been detained and sentenced to arrest terms many times. In 2007 Nasta was, together with other "Young Front" activists, convicted under Article 193-1 of the Criminal Code, "activities on behalf of an unregistered organization" and received an official warning from the court.
After the 19 December protest, Nasta was arrested at home by 15 KGB agents. She received charges under Article 293 of the Criminal Code, "mass riot", and taken to the pre-trial prison of the KGB.
On 17 February evening she was released on recognizance. On 8 March she became the first Belarusian citizen awarded with the International Women's Prize for Courage, passed to her by the US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton. On 30 March the charges to Nasta were changed to Article 342, part 1, "organization of actions that grossly violate the public order or active participation in them".
On 20 May Zhana Zhukouskauya, Judge of the Frunzenski District Court of Minsk, sentenced Nasta Palazhanka to 1 year of conditional imprisonment with one-year probation period.
Vasil Parfiankou
Born on 30 August 1983 in Minsk. Studies at School #163, then worked as a car mechanic in Minsk bus depot #7. Single.
Vasil is famous for his activities for the protection of the Kurapaty memorial in 2002, when the authorities were trying to pull down the crosses during repairs on the city belt highway. Independent media reported an arson of the activists’ campsite by unknown persons, when Vasil rescued a girl and a boy. During another attack on the activists, Vasil was injured and his arm was broken.
He was a member of the Belarusian Party of Freedom, participated in joint events with the "Young Front" and "Zubr". Repeatedly detained and convicted for his civil activity.
During the 2010 presidential election, Vasil collaborated with the "Tell the Truth!" campaign, working as an activist of Uladzimir Niakliayeu’s campaign team.
He was detained on 4 January and kept in Minsk pre-trial prison in Valadarski Street as a figurant of the criminal case instigated under part 1 of Article 293 of the Criminal Code, "mass riot".
On 17 February 2011 Volha Komar, Judge of the Frunzenski District Court of Minsk, sentenced him to 4 days of imprisonment in a high-security penal colony. She also granted the civil claim against the activist, according to which he was to pay 14,144,000 rubles as a compensation for the material damage.
Vasil was pardoned by presidential decree on 11 August 2011.
Anatol Paulau
Born on 18 June 1949 in the town of Vyborg in the Leningrad region, in the family of a military officer. He spent a part of his childhood at the Novaya Zemlya archipelago. Has lived in Minsk since 1965, when his father retired because the state of his health. Finished secondary school #4 in 1966, and graduated from the chemical faculty of Belarusian State University in 1971. Worked as a teacher in the Lahoisk district. In 1973-2000 – at various official positions in BSU. In the beginning of 2000 he was elected a member of the Minsk city committee of the trade union of educational and scientific workers, which was later dissolved. Headed the electoral headquarters of the presidential candidate Mikhail Chyhir at the election of 2001, and joined the UCP together with him.
Chair of the Minsk city organization of the United Civil Party, member of its Political and National councils.
Was an electioneering agent of the presidential candidate Yaraslau Ramanchuk during the 2010 presidential election. Detained at 7 a.m. on 20 December at home. Received charges under parts 1 and 2 of Article 293 of the Criminal Code, "organizing and participation in mass riot" and was placed in the pre-trial prison of the KGB. On 7 January was released under a written recognizance not to leave Minsk.
On 23 August the criminal case against him was dropped because of the absence of corpus delicti. He received an appropriate document, signed by police captain D.Dyshchanka, by mail. The foreign travel restrictions towards him were removed.
Andrei Pazniak
Born on 20 May 1977 in Zhodzina. Graduate of local professional lyceum. Employee of the BelAZ carcar plant. Paid no interest to politics. Grew up in a sportive family, plays football and is a fan of the BATE football team.
Detained on 19 December in Nezalezhnasts Sqaure. Fined BYR 1,050,000. Didn't come to work after the New Year holidays. As it became known later, he was arrested and charged under pats 1 and 2 of Article 293. Was kept in custody in the pre-trial prison in Valadarski Street.
On 26 May Luiudmila Hrachova, Judge of the Leninski District Court of Minsk, sentenced him to 2 years of personal restraint without direction to an open penitentiary institution. Released from custody in the court hall.
Andrei Pratasenia
Born on 12 December 1983 in Minsk. Graduate of the faculty of applied mathematics of the Belarusian State University. Programmer. Andrei has been involved in charity projects, helping to raise funds for surgical operations. Is fond of extreme sports: rope-jumping, rock-climbing and motor racing.
Joined the United Civic Party in November 2010. Worked as volunteer in Yaraslau Ramanchuk’s campaign team. Participated in the 19 December protest, but managed to leave without arrest. Detained on 9 February 2011 under circumstances yet unclear. The same day the apartment of his parents was searched. Charged under part 2 of Article 293. Was kept in custody in the KGB pre-trial prison. Human rights defenders learned about it only on 16 March.
On 5 May Ala Bulash, Judge of the Kastrychnitski District Court of Minsk, sentenced him to 3 years in a high-security colony.
Pardoned by presidential decree on 1 September 2011.
Natallia Radzina
Born on 3 May 1979 in the town of Kobryn in the family of an officer. She worked with various independent periodicals – "Imya", "Narodnaya Volia", "Naviny" and "Nasha Svaboda". Repeatedly arrested and beaten during opposition rallies. On 16 March 2010 she received a blow at her face during a search at the "Charter'97" office, held within the framework of the criminal case concerning the alleged libel against the former head of the Homel Region KGB Department, Ivan Korzh. The office of "Charter'97" and Natallia's apartment were repeatedly searched within the framework of this case. Three more independent journalists – S.Kalinkina, I.Khalip and M.Koktysh were witnesses in the case, too.
In 2010 Natallia was nominated by the British human rights group Index on Censorship for the Freedom of Speech award for "fighting against repressions and activities aimed at changing political climate."
She was detained at the Charter-97 office on 20 December 2010 and put into the KGB pre-trial prison. In late December she was charged under Article 293 ("mass riot").
On 28 December Natallia was released and put under house arrest in her native town of Kobryn. On 30 March she went to Minsk to take part in investigative actions of the KGB. On 31 March her phone stopped answering, and on 1 April the website of "Charter'97" wrote that she was abroad. On 4 August 2011 N.Radzina asked for political asylum in Lithuania.
On 23 August the criminal case against the journalist was dropped because of the absence of corpus delicti. Her parents received an appropriate document, signed by police captain D.Dyshchanka.
Vital Rymasheuski
Born on 3 March 1975 in Babruisk in the Mahiliou region. Married, has a daughter. Construction engineer, graduated from Belarusian National Technical University in 1997. In 1999 studied at the High State Management School at the Union of Public Government in Germany, did research on the economical and political situation of Germany. Has been a member of the Coordinative Council of the Belarusian Association of Young Politicians since 1996. In 2002-2004 – was a member of the Presidium of the Belarusian National Council of Youth and Children's Civil Organizations "Rada". A leader of the campaign "For Protection of Freedom of Conscience and Confession in Belarus". A member of the organizing committee of the Belarusian Christian Democracy Party, chairperson of its Minsk branch. The head of the Minsk organization of the Belarusian Christian Democracy Party, co-chair of the steering committee of the party.
A presidential candidate at the presidential election of 2010. Was injured by the riot police during the protest action of 19 December (his head was slashed with a truncheon). Detained during the dispersal of the action and put in the pre-trial prison of the KGB. Received charges under Article 293 of the Criminal Code. On 31 December was released under a written undertaking not to leave after writing an explanatory note for A.Lukashenka.
On 30 March 2011 the charges were changed to Article 342, part 1, "organization of actions that grossly violate the public order or active participation in them".
On 20 May, Zhana Zhukouskaya, Judge of the Minsk Frunzenski District Court, sentenced Vital Rymasheuski to 2 years of conditional imprisonment with a two-year probation term.
Yauhen Sakret
Born on 3 October 1966 in Minsk. Graduate of the Belarusian State Technology University. Got interested in landscape design and made it his occupation after finishing appropriate courses.
His other passion is literature. Yauhen writes verses and prose, was published in the press. He is an adherent of the democratic way of the country's development. In the 2010 presidential election he was an activist of Andrei Sannikau’s campaign team.
Detained on 19 December 2010 and sentenced to 10 days of arrest. Detained again on 17 January 2011. Three days later his residence was searched. Was kept in custody in Minsk pre-trial prison in Valadarski Street. Was charged under part 2 of Article 293 of the Criminal Code ("participation in mass riot").
On 12 May Alena Shylko, Judge of the Maskouski District Court of Minsk, sentenced him to 3 years in a minimum-security colony.
Pardoned by presidential decree on 11 August 2011.
Andrei Sannikau
Born on 8 March 1954 in Minsk. Grandson of one of the founders of Yanka Kupala Theater, Kanstantsin Sannikau. Studied at School #42, then in Minsk State Institute of Foreign Languages. In 1989, Sannikau graduated from the Diplomatic Academy of the Foreign Affairs Ministry in Moscow. Fluent in four foreign languages.
Worked in the Foreign Countries Friendship Society, then in the UN secretariat in New York. In 1993-1995 he was advisor at Belarus' mission to Switzerland. In 1995-1996 he served as deputy Minister of foreign affairs of Belarus. In November 1996, on the eve of the controversial referendum that severely limited democratic standards and the separation of powers in Belarus, Sannikau resigned from his post as a sign of protest.
In November 1997 he became a founder of the civil initiative Charter’97 and its international coordinator. In 1998 he created the Coordinating council of democratic forces of Belarus together with Henadz Karpenka. Andrei has organized numerous protest manifestations in Minsk, being repeatedly arrested, harassed and beaten. In 2008 he initiated the civil campaign "European Belarus" that declares Belarus’ joining the European Union as its target. He was awarded Bruno Kreisky International Award for human rights protection activities (2005).
Presidential candidate in 2010. According to many ratings and independent surveys, he was one of the leaders of the election campaign. Andrei was badly beaten during the violent dispersal of the 19 December rally and together with his wife Iryna Khalip was subjected to a violent arrest on their way to hospital. Was charged with organizing and taking part in the mass riot, "parts 1 and 2 of Article 293 of the Criminal Code). Was kept in custody in the KGB pre-trial prison.
On 14 May Natallia Chatsvertakova, Judge of the Partyzanski District Court of Minsk, sentenced Andrei Sannikau to 5 years of imprisonment in a high-security colony.
Pavel Seviarynets
Civil activist, a member of the Belarusian Association of Journalists’ Council. Born on 30 December 1976 in Orsha. Finished secondary school #25 in Vitsebsk with excellent marks in all subjects. He started showing interest to politics in the 10th grade, when he was elected to the children' national parliament. He was kin on geography and geology. Graduated from the geographic faculty of the Belarusian State University. In 1994-1999 he worked in a number of independent media. Has published publicistic articles in the pres in 1998. Won the literary prize of Ales Adamovich and the prize of Vasil Bykau "For freedom of thought".
In 1999-2003 Pavel was deputy chair of the Belarusian Popular Front Party. In 1999-2004 he was chair of the "Young Front", now he is co-chair of the steering committee of the Belarusian Christian Democracy Party. During the 2010 presidential election, Pavel was an activist of Vital Rymasheuski’s campaign team. Arrested on 20 December at home and put into the KGB pre-trial prison. In late December he was charged under parts 1 and 2 of Article 293
On 4 April the charges were changed to Article 342 of the Criminal Code, "Organization and preparation of group actions that grossly violate the public order or active participation in them".
On 16 May Zhana Brysina, Judge of the Zavadski District Court of Minsk sentenced Pavel to 3 years of personal restraint with direction to an open penitentiary institution. The term of his keeping in custody was taken into account – each day of imprisonment was counted as two days of personal restraint.
Mikalai Statkevich
Born on 12 August 1956 in the village of Liadna, Slutsk district, in the family of teachers. Graduated from Minsk Army Engineering College in 1978, with the qualification of military engineer in radio-electronics. In 1978-1982 Mikalai served in the army in Murmansk region, Russia, as an engineer of an automated control center of anti-aircraft brigade. In 1985-1990 he worked as a lecturer at Minsk Army Engineering College. In 1986 he received a candidate’s degree, in 1993 – a doctor’s degree. He is the author of over 60 works on ergonomics, engineering psychology and social psychology. Awarded with a medal "For Impeccable Service". Mikalai retired in the military rank of lieutenant colonel.
In 1990 he was an author of the new concept of the Belarusian army. In 1991 he left the USSR Communist Party in protest against the Vilnius January events. On 20 August 1991 he was the only Belarusian military officer to denounce the Soviet coup d'état attempt. The same year he founded the Association of Belarusian Military Officers and was its head until 1995.
In 1991 Mikalai joined the Central Council and the Executive Committee of the Belarusian Social Democratic Party "Narodnaya Hramada", and become its chairperson in 1995. In 1992 he initiated a public taking of oath to Belarus by several thousands of retired officers on the main square of Minsk. Since 1999 – chairman of the "East-European Social-Democratic Forum", and since 2003 – the leader of the "European Coalition".
In 2005 he was sentenced to 3 years of imprisonment for staging a street protest against the official results of the 2004 parliamentary elections and referendum. Has two daughters.
In 2010 he became a presidential candidate. Mikalai took part in the 19 December Minsk demonstration. He was detained and put into the KGB pre-trial prison, where he was on a hunger strike of protest on 19 December – 12 January. Was initially charged under part 2 of Article 293, "participation in mass riot", but later the charges were changed to part 1 of Article 293, "organization of mass riot".
On 26 May 2011 Liudmila Hrachova, Judge of the Leninski District Court of Minsk, sentenced him to 6 years in a high-security colony.
Vital Stazharau
A leader of the Young Democrats. Was repeatedly detained, fined and arrested for participation in opposition actions. In September 2008 monitored the parliamentary elections at polling station #456 of Staravilenskaya electoral constituency #105 in Minsk, where Anatol Liabedzka ran. He photographed the substitution of ballots. During the presidential elections 2010 he was a member of the electoral team of presidential candidate Yaraslau Ramanchuk. On 18 October he was detained at home and guarded to the Frunzenski District Police Department of Minsk. There he was interrogated by officers of the crime detention department concerning a series of arsons in Minsk. The UCP leader A.Liabedzka assessed it as “psychological pressurization with the aim to disrupt collection of signatures in support of the candidate”. After the 19 December elections, Vital was repeatedly invited to interrogations concerning the “mass riot” case. He left Belarus. On 30 April it became known that he became a suspect in the case.
Dzmitry Uss
Born in 1971 in Minsk. Graduated from the juridical faculty of Hrodna State University. Non-partisan. Married with a son. Worked at the "Integral" plant in Minsk, then – as a construction worker. Has headed the "Trivium" publishing house since 1992. Was a member of the Minsk City Council in 1999-2003. His candidacy wasn't registered at the elections of 2003 and 2007. In 2010 he participated in the election to the local councils, but lost, getting 33% of votes.
A presidential candidate at the 2010 election. Detained in the night of 19-20 December in Minsk, after the protest action. Kept at the pre-trial prison of the KGB. On 20 December was released under a written undertaking not to leave. On 19 March was given charges under Article 293, part 2, "participation in mass riot". Stated that the investigation had pressurized him with the aim to make him testify against his friend Mikola Statkevich, another presidential candidate.
On 18 March received charges under part 1 of Article 293, "organization of mass riot".
On 26 May Liudmila Hrachova, Judge of the Leninski District Court of Minsk, sentenced him to 5.5 years in a high-security colony.
Pardoned by presidential decree on 1 October 2011.
Ales Vasileuski
Born on 27 October 1985 in Minsk. Former student of the Belarusian State Polytechnic University. Expelled from studies for participation in the 2006 post-election protest. Former activist of the Young Front and the Belarusian Party of Freedom. Repeatedly convicted for participation in opposition events, including a 15-day arrest for the 19 December 2010 rally. During his imprisonment in Zhodzina detention center, he was questioned in the mass riot case. After his release, Ales was detained by the KGB and arrested for two days. After an interrogation, he was released and left Belarus.
Ilia Vasilevich
Born on 6 August 1991 in Baranavichy. Former student of Minsk Polytechnic College. Demonstrated an excellent academic progress, was the senior of his group. A good, kind-hearted and persistent person.
Served 10 days of arrest for participation in the 19 December protest. Was expelled from the college. He was invited there on 5 January, allegedly to sign the appropriate papers. However, KGB officers were waiting for him there. He was detained as a suspect in the case and taken to Akrestsin Street detention center, later transferred to Minsk pre-trial prison #1 in Valadarski Street. Is one of the youngest figurants of the criminal case.
On 14 May Natallia Chatsvertakova, Judge of the Partyzanski District Court of Minsk, sentenced him to 3 years in a high-security colony.
Pardoned by presidential decree on 14 September 2011.
Siarhei Vazniak
Born on 14 April 1962 in the Ukraine. Has a higher education. Editor-in-chief of the "Tovarishch" newspaper, civil activist, member of the Belarusian Association of Journalists. One of the founders of the Party of Communists of Belarus, renamed to the Belarusian United Leftist Party "Fair World" in 2009.
During the 2010 presidential election he was activist of the civil campaign "Tell the Truth!" and Uladzimir Niakliayeu’s campaign team. Arrested on 20 December at his apartment and put in custody in the KGB pre-trial prison. In late December he was officially charged under parts 1 and 2 Article 293 of the Criminal Code, "organization of and taking part in a mass riot".
On 29 December he was released on recognizance. On 30 March 2011 the charges to him were changed to Article 342, part 1 of the Criminal Code, "organization of actions that grossly violate the public order or active participation in them".
On 20 May Zhana Zhukouskaya, Judge of the Frunzenski District Court of Minsk, sentenced Siarhei Vazniak to 2 years of conditional imprisonment with a two-year probation period.
Pavel Vinahradau
Born on 24 April 1988 in Minsk. Was brought up by his grandmother after the divorce of parents and their departure from Minsk. Finished Technical Lyceum #4 with the qualification of hairdresser, and a musical school – as a piano player. Has lead an independent life since 18 years. Former student of Minsk Pedagogical "University (had to take away his documents after a talk with the dean).
Was an activist of the "European Belarus" campaign for several years. Repeatedly detained by the police for his political activity. He was detained for the first time at a protest action against the repeal of social benefits in 2007: he got to the police station after tearing his girl out of policemen's hands, and was sentenced to 5 days of arrest. In 2008 Pavel was one of the defendants in the "case of 14" (instigated against participants of a protest rally of entrepreneurs under Article 342 of the Criminal Code) and was sentenced to 2 years of personal restraint without direction to an open penitentiary institution. Was granted parole a year later. He worked as a plumber at that time.
Activist of the "Tell the Truth!" civil campaign since summer 2010, took part in many of its actions. Pavel was one of the most active members of Uladzimir Niakliayeu’s campaign team. Arrested on 5 January 2011 and charged under parts 1 and 2 of Article 293 of the Criminal Code. His apartment was illegally searched. Was kept in custody in the pre-trial prison in Valadarski Street.
On 5 May Ala Bulash, Judge of the Kastrychnitski District Court of Minsk, sentenced him to 4 years in a high-security colony.
Pardoned by presidential decree on 14 September 2011.
Uladzimir Yaromenak
Born on 4 September 1990 in the town of Miyory in the Vitsebsk region. Student of Belarusian State University of Informatics and Radio-Electronics. Member of the "Young Front". Regular participant of actions of solidarity with political prisoners which are held on the 16th every month.
Participated in the 19 December events. Detained by security services the following day, during a picket of solidarity with political prisoners, held opposite the House of Government. Sentenced to 15 days of arrest. After release, he was summoned as a witness and sentenced to 7 more days of arrest.
On 28 January arrested again as a suspect in the mass riot case and put in the KGB pre-trial prison. Charged under parts 1 and 2 of Article 293, "mass riot".
On 14 May 2011 Natallia Chatsverakova, Judge of the Partyzanski District Court of Minsk, sentenced him to 3 years in a high-security colony.
Pardoned by presidential decree on 11 August 2011.
