Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya: “A political prisoner, Andrei Padniabenny, has died behind bars. This is the ninth death of a political prisoner in custody that we know of. It is hard to find words to express all the pain, anger, and grief. Andrei was a loving son, a caring father, and a hardworking man – but the regime labeled him a ‘dangerous terrorist’. He was sentenced to 16 years and 8 months in prison.
Throughout his imprisonment, Andrei had to endure harsh conditions and torture, both psychological and physical pressure. Yet even under such conditions, he said that he would serve more time if it could help his children live in a free country.
For the desire of a better future for his family, the regime first deprived him of freedom, and now, in prison, they took away the most precious thing – his life.
There is nothing more terrible than losing a loved one. There can be no forgiveness for those responsible for this crime. I extend my sincere condolences to Andrei’s family and loved ones”.
