Exiled rocker Siarhiej Michałok tried in his absence, sentenced to four years

August 4, Pozirk. A judge at the Minsk City Court has sentenced exiled Belarusian rock star Siarhiej Michałok (Siarhei Mikhalok) to four years in prison, finding him guilty of inciting hatred and insulting Alaksandar Łukašenka.

According to the public prosecutor, in 2021 and 2022, Michałok posted anti-Łukašenka videos that featured obscene language.

In March 2022, Michałok allegedly published a video that portrayed law-enforcement and military officers in a negative light and was aimed at “inciting social hatred.”

The Investigative Committee reported on May 18 that a criminal case had been opened against Siarhiej Michałok.

Michałok is known as the front man for the popular punk rock bands Lyapis Trubetskoy and Brutto. An outspoken supporter of Ukraine and critic of Łukašenka, he has been on the authorities’ blacklist and has lived abroad for many years.

Politics

Politics

Update on politically motivated persecution

July 30, Pozirk. New cases of politically motivated persecution and repressive practices were recorded in Belarus on July 28 and 29.  Below is Pozirk’s recap: The Supreme Court of Belarus finished hearing an appeal against lengthy prison sentences for a …

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