Belarus Begins To Free Jailed Protesters

Belarusian authorities have started to release people detained during a postelection demonstration on December 19.

Some 20 people were released on December 29 after completing their 10-day jail sentences.

Some 600 people, including five election candidates, were detained after police violently broke up the December 19 rally against the election victory of incumbent President Alyaksandr Lukashenka

More releases are expected over the next few days.

Those released were greeted outside the prison by relatives and friends bearing gifts.

The West has strongly condemned the election and its ensuing police crackdown.