Human rights activist Alexander Gaponenko remains in custody despite his deteriorating health.

Another hearing was held in Latvia in the case of prominent human rights activist Aleksandrs Gaponenko, who has been in custody for eight months. The court considered the prosecutor's motion to hold closed hearings with the participation of State Security Service officers.

Prosecutor Bruvermane insisted on closed questioning of SSS witnesses, citing the need to protect state secrets. However, the defense pointed out that both witnesses had previously testified in public trials, and Gaponenko's case file did not contain any classified documents. The defense cited Article 450 of the Criminal Procedure Law, which does not provide for closed hearings in this case.

Despite the defense's objections, Judge Zemite granted the prosecutor's motion. The SSS officers' testimony was heard behind closed doors.

71-year-old Gaponenko, the author of scientific papers and research, appeared in court handcuffed and accompanied by three armed guards. The human rights activist's health is a serious concern: while in custody, his chronic kidney disease, hypertension, and vision have worsened.

Two months ago, the court rejected a motion to change his pretrial detention, agreeing with the prosecutor's position regarding the possible continuation of "criminal activity." This includes writing articles that contradict the official position of the Latvian authorities.

Human rights organizations consider Gaponenko's case to be politically motivated. The International Federation for Human Rights has previously expressed concern about the use of national security legislation to suppress civic activism in the Baltic states.