Ex-diplomat turned oppositionist to be tried in absentia in Belarus

December 22, BPN. Belarusian authorities started special proceedings against Uładzimir Astapienka, head of the opposition’s Brussels office since mid-October.

The diplomat is accused of large-scale embezzlement while being in public service, the Investigative Committee’s press office reported.

Prior to joining the opposition, Astapienka served as Belarusian ambassador to Argentina, representing Belarus in Paraguay, Chile, Uruguay, and Peru.

Trials in absentia in the so-called special proceedings target those living abroad and evading contact with investigators. The authorities’ ultimate goal in the process is to strip dissidents of their Belarusian citizenship.

Amendments listing 34 offenses and allowing for investigations and trials in absentia came into effect on July 27.

To date, Belarusian authorities have opened special proceedings against at least 20 persons.