EU dismayed, saddened by jailed activist’s death

May 8, BPN. The EU has expressed dismay and sadness at the death of an opposition activist and blogger in a Belarusian penal colony.

Mikałaj Klimovič, 61, had a heart condition that required constant medical care. He feared that any prison term would be fatal for him. He died serving a one-year sentence for insulting Alaksandr Łukašenka with a face-swap picture.

The EU says this shows the regime’s disregard for human rights and international law. It also demands access to Viktar Babaryka, a former presidential hopeful reportedly mistreated in prison, and an inquiry into the death of Vitold Ašurak, an activist who had passed away behind bars two years ago.

The EU calls for the release of all political prisoners and justice for victims.

“The death of Mikałaj Klimovič is yet another proof of the regime’s complete disregard for peoples’ lives and rights,” EU spokesman Peter Stano said.