Belarusian Opposition Promises Not to Hinder Lukashenko's Participation in Repeat Elections

The Belarusian opposition insists on holding repeat elections starting from November 5, after the end of Alexander Lukashenko's fifth presidential term, emphasizing that it will not obstruct his participation in these repeat elections. Maria Kolesnikova, a member of the Belarusian opposition's Coordinating Council, stated this during an interview with Interfax, as reported by Meduza.io.

Kolesnikova noted that the opposition sees no obstacles to Lukashenko participating in the repeat elections. “Even having administrative resources and committing gross falsifications, he has lost. We believe that every citizen of Belarus should have the right to participate in the elections; there should be no obstacles here. But we do not believe that Lukashenko will participate,” she said.

She stated that a complete overhaul of the Central Election Commission is necessary before the elections, including changing the head of the commission, as well as involving international observers in the elections.

It is worth recalling that protests and strikes have continued in Belarus following the presidential elections held on August 9, in which the incumbent president Alexander Lukashenko won with 80% of the votes. In the early days, security forces used force and special measures against activists. According to official data, about 7,000 people have been detained. The Ministry of Internal Affairs reported that hundreds of people were injured during the unrest. Three deaths have been officially confirmed.