Image Source : Reuters
In Belarus, the upcoming election presents voters with a familiar scenario: incumbent President Alexander Lukashenko running virtually unopposed. This marks a continuation of his 30-year grip on power, with little indication of a shift in the country’s political landscape. Lukashenko’s tenure has been characterized by authoritarian rule, with opposition candidates facing significant obstacles in their bids for office.
The 2020 presidential election serves as a prime example, where Lukashenko claimed a sixth term with over 80% of the vote, according to the Central Election Commission. However, this result was met with widespread skepticism, and opposition candidate Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya alleged that she had won a decisive first-round victory with at least 60% of the vote.
The election process in Belarus has been marred by allegations of electoral fraud, repression, and human rights abuses. The European Union refused to recognize the results of the 2020 election, imposing sanctions on Belarusian officials deemed responsible for these transgressions. As the country prepares for another election, it remains to be seen whether Lukashenko’s hold on power will be challenged in any meaningful way.
