Viasna clarifies information concerning Vasil Parfiankou’s case
Vasil Parfiankou. Photo by euroradio.fm.
The latest information in possession of human rights defenders refutes some earlier findings. As it turned out, Vasil Parfiankou was present at the hearing and provided explanations to the court.
The civil case was considered by Judge Siarhei Bandarenka of Minsk Pershamaiski District Court, who ruled to subject Vasil Parfiankou to forced isolation for a period of 12 months for treatment and labor rehabilitation with compulsory labor. Since the Court’s decision was not appealed to the Minsk City Court, it entered into force on September 17.
On September 21, the former political prisoner was sent to medical and labor dispensary No. 1 in the town of Svetlahorsk.
According to human rights defenders, the circumstances of the civil case that resulted in Vasil Parfiankou’s forced isolation in an activity therapy center do not give reason to speak of a politically motivated approach in its consideration by the Court.
However, we stress that the very practice of forced isolation of citizens in medical and labor dispensaries is viewed by human rights defenders as a violation of human rights that lies beyond the scope of criminal prosecution.
