Editor of Beshankovichy weekly appeals fine

Heorhi Stankevich, editor-in-chief of Beshankovichy independent newspaper Kryvinka is appealing a 1.4 mln. fine handed down by local court for alleged illegal distribution back on 6 January.

In his appeal, Mr. Stankevich is urging Vitsebsk Regional Court to reverse the court ruling, as Judge Volha Belavus denied the journalists his right to legal protection. As a result, Mr. Stankevich left the courtroom in protest and the verdict was pronounced in his absence.