Statement of the BNYC “RADA” on the death of political prisoner Dzmitry Shlethauer
On November 1, 2024, it became known that 22-year-old political prisoner Dzmitry Shlethauer died on October 11 in Mahilioŭ penal colony No. 15. The young man was a citizen of the Russian Federation and was sentenced to 12 years in prison under the enhanced regime for “espionage” (Article 358 of the Criminal Code) and “promoting extremist activities” (Part 1 of Article 361-4 of the Criminal Code).
In this regard, we, the union of forty-four democratic youth organizations, representatives of the Belarusian National Youth Council “RADA”, strongly condemn the Belarusian authorities for the inhumane conditions in which political prisoners are kept in Belarus. Lack of proper medical care, overcrowded cells, pressure, and moral bullying – all this creates a threat to the life and health of hundreds of people who are imprisoned just for their civil position, desire for freedom and justice.
RADA expresses its deepest condolences to the family and friends of Dzmitry Shlethauer. Dzmitry became the seventh political prisoner who died under the conditions of the Belarusian penitentiary system since the beginning of the wave of repressions in the country.
We call on the international community to pay attention to the direct violation of human rights in Belarus and to support the Belarusian civil society. No person should die in prison for their beliefs, and no people should suffer repression and torture for their pursuit of justice and freedom.
RADA demands an immediate investigation into the death of Dzmitry Shlethauer and other political prisoners who died in Belarusian prisons, and the prosecution of the perpetrators.
