Death of Opposition Figure Valentin Stermer Marks Eighth Inmate Fatality in Belarus
Valentin Stermer, imprisoned for online comments, dies amid reports of inadequate medical care in harsh conditions.
Belarusian human rights advocates report that Valentin Stermer, a 61-year-old businessman imprisoned for five years due to comments made online, has died while in custody.
Stermer had been sentenced for criticizing Russian military aggression and for making remarks deemed offensive towards President Alexander Lukashenko.
In addition, he was allegedly linked to a group classified as 'extremist.'
Reports indicate that Stermer suffered a stroke prior to his transfer to the PK-17 prison in Sklov, known for its harsh conditions.
Despite exhibiting visible signs of weakness and difficulty in walking and speaking, he continued to be made to work.
Following a fall that resulted in an arm injury, he reportedly received no medical assistance.
The exact circumstances surrounding Stermer's death remain unclear, including whether he was taken to a hospital or if he died within the prison itself.
His death occurred early in 2025, marking him as the eighth inmate to die under the increasingly repressive regime of President Lukashenko.
This pattern of fatalities has raised significant concerns among international observers regarding the treatment of political prisoners in Belarus.
Stermer had been sentenced for criticizing Russian military aggression and for making remarks deemed offensive towards President Alexander Lukashenko.
In addition, he was allegedly linked to a group classified as 'extremist.'
Reports indicate that Stermer suffered a stroke prior to his transfer to the PK-17 prison in Sklov, known for its harsh conditions.
Despite exhibiting visible signs of weakness and difficulty in walking and speaking, he continued to be made to work.
Following a fall that resulted in an arm injury, he reportedly received no medical assistance.
The exact circumstances surrounding Stermer's death remain unclear, including whether he was taken to a hospital or if he died within the prison itself.
His death occurred early in 2025, marking him as the eighth inmate to die under the increasingly repressive regime of President Lukashenko.
This pattern of fatalities has raised significant concerns among international observers regarding the treatment of political prisoners in Belarus.
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