The HFHR, which had observed the proceedings, describes the verdict as scandalous.
‘Sadly, such verdict was expected, appalling as it is’, says Bogna Chmielewska, HFHR expert. From the very beginning of the trial to its very end, the proceedings were carried out under a clear political instruction. Following the detainment of Mr Belyatsky, the criminal law in Belarus has been amended providing for new stringent penalty measures for a social activity of any kind.
The proceedings did not meet basic standards of a fair trial. The court repeatedly distorted or misinterpreted the witnesses’ testimonies. Also the court’s adherence to the principle of the presumption of innocence is questionable. The court often stated that Ales Belyatsky had been given a chance to prove his innocence by submitting relevant evidence. Yet, such evidence brought by the defence was disregarded.
Furthermore, the court stated that Mr Belyatsky’s operations concerned not only human rights protection but related to ‘other issues’ as well. However, what issues the court had in mind can only be guessed. ‘The trial was orchestrated to convict’, says Danuta Przywara, President of the HFHR.
Since Mr Belyatsky was detained, the Belarusian media has been conducting a propaganda campaign portraying non-governmental organisations, opposition and human rights activists as those who misuse money obtained from foreign donors for their own purposes.
