Sergei Tikhanovsky Emerges from Solitary Confinement, Committed to Belarusian Freedom

In a poignant interview following his release, Sergei Tikhanovsky reflects on his time in solitary confinement and his commitment to advocating for democracy in Belarus, as his family welcomes him home.

Sergei Tikhanovsky, an emblematic figure of the Belarusian opposition, has recently emerged from a harsh five-year imprisonment for opposing the dictatorial regime of Alexander Lukashenko. Barely recognizable due to significant weight loss and the mental strain of isolation, Sergei recounts the severe restrictions he faced in prison, particularly the inability to communicate. "The hardest thing was not being able to speak or write," he lamented upon his release in Vilnius.

His liberation comes in the wake of diplomatic efforts by a senior U.S. delegation, leading to the unexpected release of himself and 13 other political prisoners. The impact of his time in detention weighs heavily on him, especially during his emotional reunion with his daughter, who did not recognize him. Yet despite physical deterioration, Sergei asserts, "My spirit is not broken. Maybe it's even stronger."

Back in 2020, Tikhanovsky had developed a significant social media presence by addressing the grievances of Belarusian citizens. He attempted to run for president against Lukashenko but was arrested, prompting his wife, Svetlana Tikhanovskaya, to take his place in the election. After massive protests against presumed electoral fraud, many opposition supporters were arrested, leaving Sergei in a state of isolation and mistreatment.

Sergei faced extreme conditions, often being put in punishment cells under appalling conditions, denied contact with loved ones or legal representation, and made to suffer mentally and physically until the day he was unexpectedly released. "I didn't get a single letter in almost three years," he recalled passionately.

After years of harrowing confinement, recent geopolitical maneuvers have opened doors for dialogue with the West, with Sergei's release coming as a strategic move for Lukashenko amidst increasing isolation due to his support for Russia's actions in Ukraine. Sergei hopes for the release of all political prisoners and expresses disbelief at the ongoing oppressive practices in Belarus, stating, "For every 14 released, 28 more are detained."

Svetlana, now the spearhead of the opposition, remains cautiously optimistic but warns against easing sanctions until significant changes occur within Belarusian prisons. As Sergei settles back into family life, he expresses gratitude for his return, but his focus remains clear: "I want a democratic Belarus."