Freed Belarus Opposition Leader Sergei Tikhanovsky Reflects on Prison Experience

In an emotional reunion with his family, the former political prisoner reveals his struggles and hopes for a democratic future in Belarus.

Sergei Tikhanovsky, a former prominent opposition blogger and political prisoner in Belarus, has emerged from five years of solitary confinement with a powerful message of resilience. In an interview conducted shortly after his release in Vilnius, Tikhanovsky reflected on his difficult experience, stating that while he lost nearly 60kg (132 pounds) during his incarceration, his spirit remains unbroken.

Tikhanovsky, who was arrested for challenging the authoritarian regime of President Alexander Lukashenko, shared that the hardest part of his imprisonment was the complete isolation from the outside world. "When you can't say or write anything, you are just trapped in a cell – that's the toughest thing," he expressed. The recent unexpected freedom was part of a diplomatic move made by a senior U.S. delegation, which resulted in the release of him and 13 other political prisoners.

The emotional toll of his separation from family was particularly evident during a reunion with his daughter, who initially did not recognize him after his drastic physical changes. The reunion, however, was bittersweet, as Tikhanovsky expressed a deep longing for all those still imprisoned, numbering over 1,000 individuals.

Describing the extreme conditions during his incarceration, Tikhanovsky recounted experiences of brutal treatment and isolation, including being held in punishment cells for minor infractions, such as a mark on the wall. Despite the physical and mental challenges he faced, he remained steadfast in his beliefs, refusing to confess to any crimes. "I am no criminal," he declared, emphasizing his commitment to the cause.

The change in political dynamics, with Tikhanovsky's wife, Svetlana, taking on a leading role in the opposition following his arrest, further complicated his return. The couple is now navigating their family dynamics and political ambitions with the shared goal of achieving a democratic Belarus. Tikhanovsky's immediate future is filled with a whirlwind of activities, including reconnecting with his family and engaging in political discussions, while he firmly maintains that sanctions against the Belarusian regime should not be relaxed until complete reforms are realized.

As he reflects on the journey ahead, Tikhanovsky's resolve to advocate for change in Belarus remains stronger than ever, an embodiment of hope for a nation yearning for freedom.