Hearse drivers refuse to take Navalny’s body for Moscow funeral

The spokesperson for Navalny’s team stated that efforts to secure a hearse have been blocked by individuals of unidentified origin

Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny’s burial in Moscow on Friday will be conducted under stringent security measures amidst concerns of a potential police crackdown and challenges in organizing his funeral ceremony, as stated by his team. The commemorative event follows the sudden passing of the 47-year-old Russian opposition figure in an Arctic penal facility, with his immediate relatives facing obstacles in obtaining access to his remains. 

Allegations from his associates point fingers at Russian President Vladimir Putin for his alleged involvement in the mysterious circumstances surrounding the demise of the outspoken Kremlin critic. Kira Yarmysh, the team’s representative, disclosed difficulties in securing a hearse, citing interference from unidentified individuals. She reported instances where drivers were intimidated by anonymous sources, preventing the transportation of Navalny’s body.  

Yarmysh noted the refusal of any hearse services to convey the body to the designated location. Navalny’s supporters have criticized Russian authorities for impeding their efforts to arrange a larger public memorial service. Several Western leaders have also condemned Putin and the Russian government for their purported role in Navalny’s death, a stance vehemently refuted by the Kremlin. The funeral proceedings will commence in the vicinity of Navalny’s former residence in Moscow, with a religious ceremony at the Church of the Icon of Mother of God in Maryino.

He is scheduled to be interred at Borisovskoye cemetery, approximately 2.5 kilometers (1.5 miles) away, across the Moskva River, two hours later. 

Yulia Navalnaya, Navalny’s spouse presently residing abroad, expressed uncertainty regarding the peaceful conduct of the funeral and the potential for police intervention at the memorial gathering. 

Navalny’s mother, Lyudmila, aged 69, is anticipated to participate in his Moscow funeral. The guest list for the church service remains unclear. 

Following numerous appeals to Russian authorities, she was granted custody of his remains on Saturday. 

Upon viewing her son’s body last Thursday, Lyudmila accused Russian officials of coercion to ensure a discreet burial. 

In a message on social media platform X, Yarmysh stated on Saturday that Navalny’s body had been handed over to his mother, thanking all supporters for their efforts. 

Lyudmila is currently in Salekhard. The funeral arrangements are pending, with uncertainty surrounding potential interference by authorities. Updates will be provided promptly. 

Encouraging individuals unable to attend the funeral to pay their respects, Navalny’s team has suggested visiting local landmarks at 7 p.m. on Friday evening. 

The demise of the Russian opposition figure occurred a month before the upcoming presidential election, widely expected to result in Putin’s reelection – an event Navalny vehemently opposed, even during his imprisonment serving a 19-year term. 

Source: Newsroom