Lithuanian MPs have launched an initiative to support each Belarusian political prisoner personally. Representatives of different parliamentary parties are going to strengthen contacts with prisoners of conscience and their families.
English subs:
{movie}In Focus 25.03.2014, Lithuania solidary with Belarusian political prisoners (ENG subs)|right|15534{/movie}
On March 25, when the Belarusian democratic community were celebrating Freedom Day, Lithuanian politicians remembered those who are still behind bars due to their social or political activity. The MPs invited relatives and associates of Mikalai Statkevich, Ales Bialiatski and others. The also announced launching of their initiative to establish closer links to political prisoners’ families. Vice-Speaker Petras Auštrevičius who is about to take human rights defender Ales Bialiatski under patronage is giving reasons for his emphasis on the situation in Belarus.
PETRAS AUŠTREVIČIUS, Vice-Speaker of Lithuanian Parliament:
‘Belarus is the main problem of Europe because the whole country is politically ‘adopted’ by Lukashenka! He sees no other option than keeping Belarus under lock and key. Freedom is the principle that cures all diseases. I hope we help our neighbours.’
Maryna Adamovich, the wife of imprisoned ex-presidential candidate Mikalai Statkevich, welcomes international attention to the issue of human rights in Belarus.
MARYNA ADAMOVICH, political prisoner’s wife:
‘Lukashenka says over and over again: “Let’s keep silence and [do everytning] without noise. There is no use raising dust!” You know, these words prove that support is crucial.’
Belarus really needs international attention. According to the information of a number of NGOs, our country is on the list of the countries where freedoms are throttled most. The recent local elections were also evidence of the fact that the authorities won’t let even a sharp intake of freedom.
Yuras Salodki/MS
