Aleh Hulak: So far we have no reason to consider Andrei Haidukou a political prisoner

The Belarusian Helsinki Committee and the Human Rights Center “Viasna” are concerned about the procedural irregularities in the investigation into the charges brought against Andrei Haidukou.

This statement was made by chairman of the Belarusian Helsinki Committee Aleh Hulak. According to the human rights defender, there are many unclear circumstances in Andrei Haidukou’s case. However, it is too early to say that Andrei Haidukou is a prisoner of conscience, said Aleh Hulak.

“Of course, we are concerned that the case has political overtones. The charge itself is, of course, political. And the fact that the KGB is a body which has a low confidence. Of course, we are concerned that his right to legal defense is not provided. There are other procedural violations. But we have no reason to say that Haidukou is a political prisoner. When we have it, then our position will be corrected,” says the BHC leader.

Andrei Haidukou, a 23-year-old resident of Navapolatsk, was arrested on November 8, 2012. Officially, he was arrested while “making a dead drop for foreign intelligence services.” He faces up to 15 years in prison.