Belarus opposition leader's husband freed from prison

Lukashenko opponent held behind bars

A prominent critic of Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko has been released from prison after officials quashed the charges against him.

Background on the case

Viktor Babariko, who was seen as a possible rival to Lukashenko in the presidential election scheduled for August, was arrested in June 2020 on accusations of financial misconduct. He was subsequently sentenced to 14 years in prison.

On June 21, 2023, the Supreme Court of Belarus announced that it would review the case, leading to Babariko's release from prison pending the outcome of the review.

Significance of the move

The decision to review Babariko's case comes after unprecedented protests in Belarus calling for political reform and Lukashenko's resignation. The move is seen as a significant concession to the opposition and a possible opening for political reform.

Many see Babariko's release as a significant victory for the opposition and a possible indication of a changing political landscape in Belarus.