Statements of Support (2003-2013) / Nienhuysen, Frank

“Already the first trial against Russia’s formerly richest man became the symbol of the questionable and arbitrary justice system. Many of the privatization profiteers could have been accuses of fraud and tax evasion but Khodorkovsky pushed for a liberalization of the energy market, for private pipeline routes to China while President Vladimir Putin wanted to put the best pieces of the national industry under state control. And Khodorkovsky used his wealth politically, supported oppositional parties and groups.”

“The authorities started its investigations regarding the new accusations already shortly after the ruling against Khodorkovsky in the first trial, therefore, for many the new trial looks like a long-term strategy to keep the former concern head in prison for a long time”

Frank Nienhuysen, journalist, March 3, 2009