Sun Jan 26 05:36:41 UTC 2025: ## Belarus Holds Widely Condemned Presidential Election Amid Crackdown

MINSK, Belarus – President Alexander Lukashenko, dubbed “Europe’s last dictator,” secured a seventh term in a widely criticized presidential election held on Sunday. The vote, which was largely seen as a formality given the suppression of opposition, saw Lukashenko extend his 30-year rule over Belarus.

With political opponents jailed or exiled, Lukashenko’s victory was expected. He conducted virtually no campaign, stating he lacked the time. The election, originally scheduled for August, was moved to January, a decision analysts believe was intended to discourage protests in the harsh winter weather.

Four candidates ran alongside Lukashenko, but critics dismissed them as token figures, pointing out that none offered any criticism of the incumbent. Tatsiana Chulitskaya, a Belarusian academic, described them as merely “playing in this campaign.”

Early voting figures released by the state-run BelTA news agency indicated a 27.15% turnout after three days. While an opinion poll cited by BelTA showed high support for Lukashenko, international observers and opposition groups have consistently dismissed the legitimacy of the election process. The 2020 election, which Lukashenko also won amidst widespread allegations of fraud and sparked massive protests, serves as a stark precedent.

Following the 2020 election, thousands were arrested and convicted for participating in protests, and over 1,200 political prisoners remain incarcerated. Last week, Lukashenko released 23 political prisoners in a move described by state media as a “humanitarian gesture,” seemingly timed to coincide with the election.

Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, the leading opposition candidate in 2020 who was forced into exile, denounced the election as a “sham” and a “military-style operation” aimed at maintaining Lukashenko’s grip on power. She urged Belarusians to refrain from protests for now, prioritizing their safety.

International condemnation of the election was swift. The European Parliament rejected the results, reiterating its non-recognition of Lukashenko’s presidency and expressing unwavering support for the Belarusian people. Former US Secretary of State Antony Blinken condemned the Belarusian government’s attempt to legitimize the election, citing the lack of a free and fair environment. The official results are expected by February 5th.

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