Moscow, Russia – The funeral of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, who passed away unexpectedly in an Arctic prison two weeks ago, will be held in Moscow on Friday. Navalny’s spokesperson, Kira Yarmysh, announced on social media that the ceremony will take place at the Church of the Icon of the Mother of God in Navalny’s hometown of Maryino, with burial following at Borisov Cemetery.
Since Navalny’s supposed death was reported by prison officials, there has been speculation surrounding the circumstances of his passing and the funeral arrangements. Many supporters believe that the Kremlin is trying to prevent a public burial attended by large crowds.
Navalny’s mother, Lyudmila Navalnaya, claimed that investigators attempted to coerce the family into holding a secret funeral, even threatening to allow Navalny’s body to decompose if they did not comply. The family faced difficulties finding a venue for the funeral, with some places citing prior commitments and others outright refusing due to the association with Navalny.
Amidst these challenges, Navalny’s wife, family, and colleagues have accused Russian President Vladimir Putin of ordering Navalny’s killing. Navalny, a prominent critic of Putin, survived a poisoning attempt in 2020, which was later confirmed to have been carried out by Russian state agents.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov has vehemently denied the allegations, dismissing them as “absolutely unacceptable” and “boorish.” Despite the controversies and pressures surrounding Navalny’s death and funeral, supporters are expected to gather to pay their respects as he is laid to rest.