Belarus sentences journalist to 4 years in prison, days after release of over 50 political prisoners

A Belarusian court sentenced Tuesday a prominent independent journalist to four years in prison, days after more than 50 political prisoners were released as part of a U.S.-brokered deal. The opposition and rights activists denounced the ruling as part of a continuing crackdown on dissent.

Ihar Ilyash was convicted on extremism charges for articles and commentaries critical of authoritarian President Alexander Lukashenko’s government. Ilyash rejected the charges, saying in his final remarks at the trial that “freedom of speech isn’t a crime.”

Andrei Bastunets, head of the Belarusian Association of Journalists, said the verdict signaled that the Belarusian authorities had no intention to soften their clampdown on independent media.

“Ilyash’s sentencing shows ... Belarus remains the Black Hole of Europe and one of the most dangerous places for journalists,” Bastunets said, noting that at Ilyash is one of at least 27 journalists are currently behind bars in the country. “Repressions against independent journalists are like revolving doors.”

On Thursday, 52 political prisoners were released following a deal brokered by Washington, which lifted some sanctions on the country’s national carrier. The agreement reflected a rapprochement between the U.S. and Belarus, a close ally of Russia that has faced Western isolation for years.