Not many individuals dare to confront Russian President Vladimir Putin, as there’s a widespread belief that those who do meet untimely ends. Numerous suspicious deaths have been linked to the Kremlin’s leader, although he has never faced conviction in connection to any. Alexei Navalny, a vocal critic, reportedly suffered poisoning and subsequent imprisonment on extremism charges. His recent demise in custody has triggered a flurry of conspiracy theories.
Alexei Navalny emerged as a prominent figure in the opposition, aiming to contest Putin’s leadership in Russia. He stood as Putin’s staunchest adversary, displaying unwavering determination in his pursuit. Prior to his political endeavors, Navalny diligently pursued his education, eventually becoming a lawyer. He actively engaged in anti-corruption initiatives and vehemently criticized the government.
He faced multiple incarcerations on different charges, such as criticizing a government official, fraud, and embezzlement. In December 2016, he declared his candidacy to challenge Putin in the presidential race.
Ironically, in 2017, he was retried for a previous offense and convicted, rendering him ineligible to run for office. However, Navalny persisted in his activism, organizing protests and denouncing the widespread corruption in the nation. In 2020, he fell ill during a flight, prompting suspicions of poisoning by his team. Subsequently, in 2021, he was imprisoned, becoming the most notable political detainee in the country.
Navalny’s death was announced by the Russian Federal Penitentiary Service on February 16 after he felt unwell during a walk. Despite efforts to revive him, they were unsuccessful. While his passing surprised some, it was not wholly unforeseen. Navalny himself had anticipated lifelong imprisonment, despite being sentenced to 19 years.
The announcement of the opposition leader’s demise ignited numerous conspiracy theories, with many pointing fingers at Putin. President Joe Biden can be remembered to say, “Make no mistake, Putin is responsible for Navalny’s death,” in a speech after hearing about the news.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy pointed out that Putin’s participation was clear, whereas Christian Linder, Germany’s finance minister, asserted that “Putin tortured him to death” for his advocacy for a democratic Russia.
Further intensifying the controversy was the reported unavailability of Navalny’s body to his family. Later, it emerged at a hospital morgue in the Arctic with signs of bruising. Authorities claimed his death was due to sudden death syndrome, a vague explanation for an unexpected demise. Essentially, the lack of definitive answers has spurred the public to form their own conclusions, with many suspecting Putin’s involvement, whether direct or indirect.
