Olaf Scholz, German Chancellor, Remembers Alexei Navalny’s Legacy
Berlin, February 16, 2023 – German Chancellor Olaf Scholz (SPD) has commemorated the life and work of Alexei Navalny, an outspoken critic of Russian President Vladimir Putin who died a year ago under suspicious circumstances.
"Alexey Navalny died one year ago today because he stood up for democracy and freedom in Russia," Scholz wrote on social media platform X on Sunday. "Russian President Vladimir Putin is brutally fighting freedom and its defenders. This makes Navalny’s work all the more courageous."
Scholz praised Navalny’s bravery and unwavering commitment to democratic values. "His courage made a difference and continues to have an effect far beyond his death," he said.
Navalny’s Legacy
Alexei Navalny was Russia’s most prominent opposition figure, known for his anti-corruption investigations and his tireless advocacy for democratic reforms. He was sentenced to nine years in prison in 2021 on politically motivated charges.
On February 16, 2024, Navalny died in a penal colony in the Arctic, where he was serving his sentence. The circumstances surrounding his death remain unclear, and many believe Russian authorities were responsible.
International Condemnation
Navalny’s allies and Western leaders have condemned the Russian government for his death. German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock (Greens) paid tribute to Navalny on the anniversary of his death, saying that his "fire for freedom" lives on in those who continue to resist Putin’s authoritarianism.
"Russia is not Putin, Putin is not Russia," Baerbock said, quoting Navalny’s widow, Yulia Navalnaya. She pledged to continue supporting those who are fighting for a democratic Russia despite the risks.
Crackdown on Dissent
The Kremlin has warned Russian opposition figures, both within and outside the country, to refrain from commemorating Navalny’s death. However, many Russians have defied the threat of repression to pay their respects.
On Sunday, hundreds of people laid flowers at Navalny’s grave in Moscow’s Borissowskoje Cemetery. Police allowed them access, but they were filmed by security officers, according to independent media reports. Visitors faced the risk of surveillance and potential reprisals.
Foreign diplomats, including US Ambassador Lynne Tracy and EU Ambassador Roland Galharague, also visited the grave.
The Russian authorities continue to crack down on dissent, imprisoning hundreds of political prisoners. The human rights group Memorial, which was banned in Moscow, has identified 785 political prisoners in Russia. Three of Navalny’s lawyers were recently sentenced to lengthy prison terms for defending the opposition figure.
Berlin Memorial
In Berlin, a memorial service will be held at the Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church on Sunday evening. Navalny’s widow, Yulia, is expected to attend.
Alexei Navalny’s legacy as a fearless advocate for democracy and freedom in Russia continues to inspire those who believe in a better future for the country.
