Autuchovič, another defender removed from courtroom

May 19, BPN. Mikalaj Aŭtuchovič, 59, a civic activist and outspoken critic of Aliaksandr Lukašenka, and Uladzimir Hundar, an opposition activist from Baranavičy, were removed from the courtroom until the end of their trial, Hundar’s wife Alena told BPN.

According to the Viasna Human Rights Center, Aŭtuchovič and Hundar were removed for order violations. Hundar’s wife said that her husband was singing songs, but it remains unclear why Aŭtuchovič was removed.

Aŭtuchovič is charged under ten criminal articles, including terrorism and high treason. His trial, together with 12 other people, including Hundar, started at Hrodna Prison No. 1 on May 18. Judge Maksim Filataŭ, who imposed a sentence on political activist Vitoľd Ašurok who died at the Škloŭ prison in the Mahilioŭ region in 2021, presides over the proceedings. Aŭtuchovič and Hundar had their motions to replace the judge rejected. 

Viasna noted that only two of the defendants’ family members were allowed to attend the first hearing, but state-controlled media journalists were present.

Aŭtuchovič and Liubov Rezanovič were kept in a separate cell for especially dangerous suspects. Aŭtuchovič asked the judge to transfer Rezanovič to a normal cell, but the court rejected his motion. She was said to be in need of medical attention because of a spike in blood pressure.

Anton Meľcher rejected a lawyer’s services and decided to defend himself. He is charged with gross public order violations.