Freed Belarus Opposition Leader Reflects on Five Years in Solitary Confinement

Sergei Tikhanovsky regained his freedom after years of imprisonment for opposing the Belarusian government, emerging with a powerful story of resilience and a desire for democratic change.

Sergei Tikhanovsky, once a prominent Belarusian blogger and opposition leader, emerged as a symbol of resilience after being released from a high-security prison where he had spent over five years in solitary confinement. The shocking transformations he underwent during his time behind bars, including a staggering weight loss of almost 132 pounds, did not break his spirit. Instead, his resolve for democratic change in Belarus has only heightened.

His release came as a surprising turn of events following a delegation visit from the U.S., which sought to negotiate the freedom of several political prisoners. While expressing joy over his newfound freedom, Tikhanovsky revealed the deep emotional scars of his imprisonment, including the painful reunion with his family, particularly with his daughter, who struggled to recognize him.

In an interview conducted in Vilnius, Tikhanovsky recalled the torture of isolation in a cramped punishment cell, sealed off from communication and devoid of basic human contact. “The toughest thing was not being able to speak or write,” he shared, “When you can't communicate, you're just trapped.” He maintained that despite his physical condition, his spirit remains unbroken. “Maybe it's even stronger,” he reflected.

Tikhanovsky spoke about the grim realities within Belarus's prison system, where high-profile opposition figures face harrowing conditions and torture. He also recounted the moment it became clear that he might be released, as the Belarusian regime appeared keen to project a facade of mercy.

The freed leader expressed a deep desire to see all political prisoners freed in Belarus and lamented the continued repression under President Alexander Lukashenko, stating, “I’d give anything to get them all out.” His wife, Svetlana, who is now leading the opposition movement, echoed similar sentiments about the need for continued international pressure against the Lukashenko regime.

In his first week of freedom, Tikhanovsky has engaged with political figures, expressed gratitude to various leaders including Donald Trump, and is catching up on lost family time. He emphasized his support for democracy in Belarus and clarified that he has no desire to overshadow his wife’s role in the opposition movement. His focus remains on the country’s future and the shared dream of freedom for all Belarusians.