Andrei Sannikov: Mikhail Marynich was Belarus’ highest-status politician

The leader of “European Belarus” civil campaign has expressed his condolences to the family members and dear ones of Mikhail Marynich.

“The news about his death is truly shocking,” Andrei Sannikov said. “Mikhail had several strokes, but he courageously pulled through after those strokes. The first one occurred when he was behind the bars. They were killing him there, but he survived and not just recovered after the release, but continued his activities for the good of Belarus. I was lucky to be friends with him for many years. Not many people give thought to the fact that Mikhail Marynich was probably the highest status politician in Belarus. He was a city mayor, and Foreign Economic Ties Minister, and an Ambassador to several states. He was an extraordinary person by his professional and moral virtues. I am proud to be his friend, and of the fact that without hesitation he supported me in the presidential race. We had common plans, which are to be continued now without Mr Marynich. He was a pure soul, a person of a new Belarus, a sincere patriot, who all of us are going to miss greatly. Let him stay in our loving memory. I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family members and the dear ones.”

The former political prisoner, ambassador and the minister of foreign economic ties of Belarus, Mikhail Marynich, has died today at the age of 74.