Summary
Sergei Tikhanovsky, an opposition figure in Belarus, was released from solitary confinement in a high-security prison after over five years. He was jailed for opposing the Belarusian president and has now been exiled but remains determined to continue advocating against the regime.
Key Facts
- Sergei Tikhanovsky was held in solitary confinement for over five years in Belarus.
- He was arrested for opposing Belarus's authoritarian president, Alexander Lukashenko, before a 2020 election.
- Tikhanovsky's imprisonment included harsh conditions, such as being in a punishment cell without basic amenities.
- His release came after a visit by a senior US delegation to Belarus.
- Tikhanovsky lost almost 60kg (132 pounds) during his time in prison.
- He was released alongside 13 other political prisoners.
- While in prison, he was not allowed phone calls, letters, or visits, including from a priest.
- Tikhanovsky's wife, Svetlana Tikhanovskaya, ran for president in his place and drew large public support.
