Estonia (AP) — Belarusian authorities have begun a trial in absentia for 20 political analysts accused of conspiracy to overthrow the government and participating in an extremist group. These analysts, who have all left Belarus, face up to 12 years in prison and the seizure of their assets if convicted upon returning to the country. The analysts have rejected the charges as “absurd” and do not expect a fair trial.
The crackdown on dissent in Belarus has been ongoing for several years, particularly following the controversial 2020 presidential election that saw incumbent President Alexander Lukashenko claim victory. Mass protests erupted, leading to arrests, violence against protestors, and the closure of independent news outlets and rights groups. Many opposition figures and journalists have fled the country.
The analysts on trial are accused of advising opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya during the 2020 election. Tsikhanouskaya herself fled the country and was later convicted in absentia. The trial has drawn international condemnation, with Tsikhanouskaya calling for solidarity and support for those facing persecution in Belarus. The Viasna center, a prominent human rights group in Belarus, reports that there are currently 1,403 political prisoners in the country, including Nobel Peace Prize laureate Ales Bialiatski.
Despite the grim situation, the analysts and their supporters continue to fight for justice and democracy in Belarus. The trial serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing repression faced by those who dare to speak out against authoritarian regimes.
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