Thousands of mourners gather near a church in southern Moscow for the funeral of late Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, defying warnings from the Kremlin against “unauthorized” protests.
The ceremony follows Navalny’s death in an Arctic prison, sparking accusations of murder and suppression of a dignified burial by President Vladimir Putin’s administration.
Despite heavy security, mourners, including foreign ambassadors and independent politicians, pay their respects at the Mother of God Quench My Sorrows church.
The presence of anti-riot police trucks and fencing around the church raises questions among attendees about the need for such measures.
Over 400 mourners have been detained since Navalny’s death, according to rights organization OVD-Info, fueling concerns of disruptions during the funeral. Navalny’s widow, Yulia Navalnaya, voices fears of further arrests and directly blames Putin for her husband’s demise.
People outside the church continue chanting “Navalny!” pic.twitter.com/IxycrvYX58
— The Anti-Corruption Foundation (@ACF_int) March 1, 2024
Western governments hold the Kremlin responsible for Navalny’s death but refrain from direct accusations.
Navalny’s anti-corruption activism and his arrest upon returning to Russia in January 2021 after surviving a poisoning attack in Germany drew international condemnation.
Navalny’s family and supporters allege torture and isolation leading to his death, accusing authorities of attempting to suppress public mourning and control his burial. The struggle to find a venue for a public funeral underscores government efforts to silence dissent.
Despite challenges, Navalny’s family and allies vow to continue his legacy. At the funeral, Mourners pledged to continue Navalny’s fight for justice and accountability, highlighting his enduring impact on Russian politics.
Navalny’s death reignites calls for transparency and democracy in Russia, resonating with both domestic and international audiences.
His demise marks a pivotal moment in Russian opposition movements, inspiring renewed activism and scrutiny of the Putin administration’s actions.
