Sergei Tikhanovsky, the Belarusian opposition leader recently released from prison, reflects on the harsh realities of his five years of solitary confinement and the toll it took on him physically and emotionally. Speaking freely for the first time since his unexpected release, Tikhanovsky shared his journey of resilience during a recent meeting in Vilnius, Lithuania. Having lost nearly 60 kilograms (132 pounds) during his imprisonment, he acknowledged that while his physical form has drastically changed, his spirit remains unbroken. “Physically I’m half the size and half the weight,” he noted, “but my spirit is not broken. Maybe it’s even stronger.”
Tikhanovsky was imprisoned for opposing Alexander Lukashenko, Belarus’ authoritarian ruler. He had built a significant following online by addressing public grievances and attempted to register as a presidential candidate in 2020, leading to massive demonstrations in the wake of the contested election. His wife, Svetlana Tikhanovskaya, took up the mantle after his arrest, drawing large crowds in her bid against the regime.
His time in isolation was marked by severe restrictions, depriving him of communication, correspondence, and even religious solace. For almost three years, he did not receive a single letter or phone call, and was subjected to cruel conditions in a punishment cell, leading him to adopt various coping mechanisms in order to survive both mentally and physically.
Tikhanovsky’s release came after a visit from a senior U.S. delegation, aimed at negotiating the release of American citizens held in Belarus. The release also highlights the delicate balancing act political leaders face in dialogue with Lukashenko’s regime, as he aims to re-establish connections with the West amidst ongoing sanctions due to his support of Russia in the Ukraine conflict.
Despite his heartbreak over the ongoing plight of over 1,000 political prisoners still detained in Belarus, Tikhanovsky remains hopeful. He expressed a powerful desire for their release, stating, “I would give anything to get them all out.” His wife, now a prominent opposition figure, echoes this sentiment, cautioning against any easing of sanctions until repression ceases.
In his first week of freedom, Tikhanovsky has engaged with politicians, delivered speeches, and reconnected with his family, including a daughter who struggled to recognize him after years apart. He remains committed to advocating for a democratic Belarus, stating, “I don’t have any claims to her role… I just need a democratic Belarus.”
Tikhanovsky’s story is a testament to the resilience of those who suffer under oppressive regimes, underscoring the enduring fight for freedom in Belarus. The collective resolve of the opposition can inspire hope for a future where democracy is attainable, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges.