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Prominent Belarusian Opposition Activist Arrested Again


Syarhey Kavalenka in Minsk in October 2012, soon after his release from prison
Syarhey Kavalenka in Minsk in October 2012, soon after his release from prison
VITSEBSK, Belarus -- Prominent Belarusian opposition activist Syarhey Kavalenka was arrested in the eastern city of Vitsebsk on March 25.

Kavalenka's wife, Alena Kavalenka, told RFE/RL that government authorities did not give any clear details about why her husband was arrested.

Kavalenka made headlines last year for his hunger strikes over a three-month period while in prison.

In February 2012, he was given a 25-month sentence for violating the terms of his parole for a conviction on charges of "illegally displaying the banned Belarusian national flag."

Officials force-fed him before, during, and after the trial because of his hunger strike.

He was released in September.

Kavalenka said authorities forced him to ask for clemency.
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