MINSK, Belarus: A Catholic priest in Belarus has been sentenced to 11 years in a penal colony on politically motivated charges, signaling intensifying pressure on religious communities in the Russia-aligned nation. The sentence was handed down to Father Henrikh Akalatovich, pastor of the Catholic parish in Valožyn, shortly before the New Year, according to human rights advocates.

A First in Belarus' Post-Soviet History

This marks the first instance of a Catholic priest facing such a severe penalty in Belarus since the nation declared independence following the Soviet Union's collapse in 1991. Human rights organization Viasna Center brought the case to public attention, revealing troubling details about the priest’s health and circumstances surrounding his arrest.

Father Akalatovich, who had undergone cancer surgery and suffered a heart attack prior to his detention, was convicted under stringent conditions despite requiring medical care. Activists argue the harsh sentence serves as a warning to silence religious leaders ahead of the January 26 presidential election.

Political Context and Suppression

Belarus, led by President Alexander Lukashenko since its first free elections in 1994, is witnessing a crackdown on dissent as elections approach. The Associated Press reported that authorities are tightening their grip on opposition voices to secure control amid rising tensions.

The Catholic Church, representing 10% of Belarus’ 9.4 million population, has been a key target. New laws introduced in December 2023 under the Freedom of Conscience and Religious Organizations Act now heavily restrict educational and missionary activities by churches. Parishes must re-register by July 2025 to avoid forced closure.

Wider Implications of Religious Persecution

Father Akalatovich’s sentencing adds to the tally of 1,287 political prisoners in Belarus, including notable figures like Ales Bialiatski, founder of the Viasna rights group and recipient of the 2022 Nobel Peace Prize. Advocates view the priest’s imprisonment as a tactic to intimidate religious institutions and suppress dissenting voices.

Father Akalatovich hails from Novaya Mysha, a village in the Baranovichi region. He began his religious service in 1984 after completing his studies at the Riga Seminary. Once appreciated by the Belarusian authorities for delivering sermons in the Belarusian language, he reportedly faced persecution following the disputed 2020 elections.

As Belarus navigates these challenging times, the international community is watching closely, with growing concerns about human rights violations and the broader implications for freedom of expression and religion in the country.