Alexei Navalny, Russia’s most prominent opposition leader, believed he would die in prison, as revealed in his memoir, Patriot. Navalny, a fierce critic of President Vladimir Putin, died in an Arctic Circle jail in February while serving a 19-year sentence on extremism charges widely considered politically motivated.
In his memoir, Navalny wrote, “I will spend the rest of my life in prison and die here.” He expressed sorrow, saying, “There will be nobody to say goodbye to… All anniversaries will be celebrated without me. I’ll never see my grandchildren.” These poignant words offer a glimpse into Navalny’s life in prison.
Navalny’s death sparked shock and anger worldwide, with tributes honoring his courage as a political campaigner. Many blamed Putin for his tragic fate. The Kremlin’s response was subdued, merely acknowledging his passing.
In August 2020, Navalny survived a poisoning attempt with a Novichok nerve agent while returning from Siberia. During his recovery in Germany, he began writing Patriot. Russian authorities immediately arrested Navalny upon his return to Moscow in January 2021 and then held him in jail for the remaining 37 months of his life.
While imprisoned, Navalny continued writing his memoir, documenting his declining health and isolation. His humor shines through in descriptions of daily life, such as sitting at a sewing machine for seven hours and then on a wooden bench under Putin’s portrait for “disciplinary activity”.
Navalny’s Prison Story reveals his unwavering commitment to Russia. When asked why he returned, Navalny replied, “I don’t want to give up my country or betray it. If your convictions mean something, you must stand up for them and make sacrifices”.
The memoir, set for release on October 22, includes Navalny’s diary entries, some of which he managed to post on social media during captivity. David Remnick, editor of The New Yorker, noted that reading Navalny’s prison diary is a heartbreaking experience.
As the world remembers Navalny, his memoir is a testament to his bravery. Navalny’s Prison Story will live on, inspiring those who fight for freedom and justice.
