UN sought for Moldovan activist's release
Amid deteriorating health concerns and allegations of political repression, Moldovan human rights organisation Promo-LEX has petitioned the United Nations to secure the immediate release of Victor Pleșcanov, a Transnistrian activist currently serving a three-year, two-month sentence for "inciting extremism."
Promo-LEX maintains that Pleșcanov's imprisonment stems solely from his exercise of freedom of expression, particularly his outspoken criticism of Russia's military presence in the breakaway region of Transnistria. "Victor Pleșcanov is a prisoner of conscience," declared Iurie Ciobanu, Executive Director of Promo-LEX. "We urge the United Nations to take immediate action to ensure his release and guarantee his fundamental rights are respected."
Pleșcanov, 58, has long been a vocal critic of the Transnistrian authorities, facing prior arrests for his activism. In June 2022, he received a five-day "hooliganism" sentence following his public condemnation of the Transnistrian security services. However, upon completion of this initial detention, he was instead charged with "inciting extremism" and subsequently sentenced to the current term.
The Moldovan government has also expressed concern over Pleșcanov's situation. In June, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement urging Transnistria to "cease the persecution and intimidation" of the activist. Despite this diplomatic intervention, Pleșcanov remains incarcerated in Tiraspol's Preventive Detention Center No. 3.
Adding to the urgency of the situation, Promo-LEX highlights concerns regarding Pleșcanov's declining health. They emphasise the need for immediate access to adequate medical care while reiterating their assertion that he is "being held illegally."
This case raises significant human rights concerns, prompting international advocacy for Pleșcanov's release. The United Nations' response and the potential ramifications for Transnistrian authorities in light of this pressure remain to be seen.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
