Kazulin: Authorities plan show trial of Autukhovich

Former political prisoner Alyaksandr Kazulin expressed concern about methods used by the authorities to intimidate opponents. He told ERB that the authorities plan a show trial of imprisoned businessman Mikalay Autukhovich, whose persecution is widely regarded as politically motivated.

 

"Now that the authorities are about to adopt a law that authorizes arrests without warrants from prosecutors and prepare for a show trial of Autukhovich, it is very dangerous. Clearly, the authorities seek to solve socioeconomic problems using strong-arm methods and are trying to intimidate people," Kazulin said.

 

Kazulin is among 27 prominent opposition figures who have appealed foreign leaders to put pressure on authorities in Belarus over what they call politically motivated persecution of Autukhovich, Uladzimir Asipenka and Artsyom Dubski. He says that the public should stand up against the government's repressive tactic.

 

"I do not quite understand why not enough attention is given to the Autukhovich case, especially now that he has been charged with terrorism. This is the first case in our country. Clearly, the authorities are preparing to stage a show trial as a result of which he can be unfoundedly sentenced to more than ten years in prison," Kazulin said.