Late Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny’s prison diaries have revealed the taunting he endured from prison guards while on a hunger strike. The guards hid sweets in his pockets to undermine his protest, as detailed by his defiant journal entries. These entries shed light on his final years, including his hunger strike over access to medical treatment, which ultimately led to his death in February inside a Russian penal colony known as Polar Wolf.
Navalny expressed hope that his memoir would serve as his memorial if anything were to happen to him. He detailed his desire for his family to benefit from any proceeds from the book, emphasizing the importance of his story being told. Throughout his hunger strike, guards attempted to break his resolve by placing candy in his pockets and frying chicken and bread to tempt him. Despite the challenges, Navalny remained steadfast in his protest until external doctors were allowed to assess his deteriorating health.
As his weight dropped significantly during the hunger strike, Navalny maintained his resolve and willpower. He reflected on the physical toll the strike took on his body, noting his weight loss and the absence of visible abs. Despite facing numerous charges from the Putin regime and the harsh conditions of prison life, Navalny mentally prepared himself for the worst-case scenario, accepting the possibility of spending the rest of his life behind bars.
In his journal entries, Navalny described the grueling daily routine in prison, which included long hours of labor and harsh living conditions. He recounted the extreme temperatures and physical demands placed on prisoners, highlighting the challenging environment he endured. Despite the hardships, Navalny remained resilient and determined to continue his fight for justice and democracy in Russia.
The insights provided by Navalny’s prison diaries offer a glimpse into the courage and determination of a man who stood up against oppression and faced immense challenges with unwavering resolve. His legacy as a champion of democracy and human rights lives on, inspiring others to continue the fight for freedom and justice. Navalny’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of speaking out against injustice and standing up for what is right, even in the face of adversity.