Syarhey Tsikhanouski continues to fight for democracy after prison release

In Belarus, Syarhey Tsikhanouski, a prominent opposition figure, was jailed in May 2020 while running for president against the long-standing authoritarian leader, Aleksandr Lukashenko. After spending years in solitary confinement, Tsikhanouski was released from prison in June 2021. Following his release, he re-emerged as a vocal proponent for democracy, emphasizing his commitment to opposing Lukashenko's regime. His wife, Svyatlana Tsikhanouskaya, took over his role as the opposition leader during his imprisonment, and together they now aim to revitalize the stalled opposition efforts in Belarus. Tsikhanouski publicly expressed his recognition of the challenges faced by the movement, admitting the energy of the 2020 protests has diminished since he was imprisoned. In his first detailed interview since regaining his freedom, Tsikhanouski addressed various topics including his support for political prisoners, the importance of engaging supporters for donations, and his new role alongside his wife. He described feeling a sense of loss regarding the opposition’s momentum, noting, "It's painful to feel that the fire has gone out." However, he remains optimistic and wants to leverage his name and experience to support former political prisoners and Belarusian exiles, indicating his initiative is to not only raise funds but also to create solutions for those in need. Tsikhanouski drew a clear distinction between his approach and that of Lukashenko, refuting claims of being populist or authoritarian. He expressed a commitment to truth and integrity, declaring, "I don’t lie. That’s the opposite of him." As a devout Christian, he conveyed forgiveness toward his oppressors but emphasized the need for justice in Belarus to achieve a true democratic goal. His return to political activities signifies a renewed resistance against the entrenched regime, reflecting a broader desire among many Belarusian citizens for change. Despite acknowledging the lengthy and challenging fight ahead, Tsikhanouski remains unwavering in his belief that progress is possible. He stated that if he stops campaigning, the societal issues in Belarus will remain unchanged. The strength gained during the 2020 uprising serves as a foundation for his continuing advocacy, and he encourages others in exile to persist in their struggle for democracy and freedom in Belarus. The collaboration with his wife, Svyatlana, and their shared vision reflects a commitment to resist any attempt to suppress their voices further, aiming for a united front against the oppressive regime.