The European Christian Political Party (ECPP) welcomes the recent release of several Belarusian opposition leaders, including Siarhei Tsikhanouski, following the visit of U.S. envoy Keith Kellogg to Minsk. This marks a hopeful development after years of deepening political repression.
Since the widely disputed 2020 presidential election, Belarus has seen a severe decline in democratic freedoms. The regime of Alexander Lukashenko has systematically cracked down on peaceful protesters, independent media, civil society, and political opponents. Thousands have been imprisoned for political reasons.
The release of these political prisoners follows earlier releases of dissidents, suggesting that President Lukashenko may be seeking to improve relations with Western countries. If followed by genuine reforms, this could signal a positive shift for the Belarusian people.
ECPP President Valeriu Ghilețchi stated:
“The release of political prisoners in Belarus is a welcome and hopeful step, particularly in light of last year’s similar developments. We pray for a future of greater freedom and dignity for the Belarusian people, and an end to restrictive authoritarianism. ECPP continues to stand in solidarity with them in their pursuit of fundamental freedoms and justice.”
The ECPP urges European institutions and the international community to remain engaged, ensuring that this gesture leads to lasting democratic change and the full protection of human rights in Belarus.