BUCHAREST, Romania (AP) – For the first time since communism collapsed in Romania 25 years ago, a former prison commander goes on trial Monday charged with being responsible for the torture and murdering prisoners considered a threat to the country’s old order.
Survivors say the delay in bringing perpetrators to justice was a cynical tactic by Romania’s new rulers, some of whom held senior positions under the communist regime, to avoid accountability.
“These criminals were left in peace on purpose and most died in their beds. now they are bringing some of the crimes to light and it is important,” said Octav Bjoza, director of the Association of Former Political Prisoners in an interview with The Associated Press.
Alexandru Visinescu, 88, goes on trial charged with crimes against humanity for deaths that happened under his command at Ramnicu Sarat prison from 1956 to 1963. Since authorities brought charges against him, Visinescu says people in the street have shoved him to the ground and called him a criminal. He has pleaded not guilty and calls himself a scapegoat.
“I only followed orders. They should ask those that gave the orders,” he told the AP on Friday. “I am convinced they will do anything to take revenge.