Opposition politician says judges to answer for politically-motivated convictions

May 24, Pozirk. The trial of Franak Viačorka, exiled regime critic and aide to opposition leader Śviatłana Cichanoŭskaja, will open at 10.30 am on May 31, says the electronic court schedule.

Judge Valancina Ziańkievič, known for passing harsh sentences in politically-motivated cases, will preside over proceedings which will be held without the defendant being present.

Three months ago, the Investigative Committee accused Viačorka of conspiracy to overthrow the government, high treason, inciting hatred, organizing mass riots, participating in protests, calling for sanctions, discrediting Belarus, defaming Alaksandar Łukašenka and extremism-related crimes.

“Let them choke on their special proceedings and their charges,” Viačorka has told Pozirk in a comment on the upcoming trial. “I don’t recognize their ‘trial’ but I will do my best to hold accountable this HUBAZiK [a short name for interior ministry’s organized crime unit] clad in robes, as well as all those involved in the reprisals against Belarusians.”

The politician pledged to fight for the liberation of Belarus from Łukašenka’s rule and the release of all people imprisoned in politically-motivated cases.

The Investigative Committee filed criminal charges against hundreds of exiled activists. The Committee for State Security (KGB) also has a list of people it seeks to prosecute in absentia.

Amendments listing 34 offenses and allowing for investigations and trials in absentia came into effect in July 2022.

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