7 Dec 2022 12:51

Belarus to enact death penalty for officials, servicemen on treason counts - bill

MOSCOW. Dec 7 (Interfax) - Belarus is planning to enact the death penalty for officials and servicemen on counts of treason, and a bill amending the criminal liability codes has passed its first reading, the press service for the Belarusian National Assembly's House of Representatives said on Wednesday.

"For the purpose of the deterrence of destructive elements and demonstration of resolute response to high treason, the bill amends the penalty envisaged by Part 2 Article 356 of the Criminal Code, which allows for capital punishment, i.e. the death sentence on public officials and persons with serviceman status," the press service said.

"The bill aims at preemptive measures against extremist (terrorist) crimes to be taken through the adjustment of the Criminal Code and the Criminal Procedure Code of the Republic of Belarus," it said.

The bill also amends criminal laws regarding the dissemination of knowingly false information that discredits the Belarusian army, the damage done to economic and/or military security, and some other offenses.