Sun Jan 26 17:47:45 UTC 2025: ## Belarussian President Lukashenko Wins Controversial Sixth Term

**MINSK, BELARUS** – Alexander Lukashenko secured a sixth term as Belarusian president on Sunday, January 26, 2025, in an election widely condemned as a sham by opposition groups and international observers. The 70-year-old autocrat, in power since 1994, faced only token opposition in a vote that saw a record turnout during early voting (41.81%).

The election, criticized for its lack of transparency and suppression of dissent, featured pre-election arrests, internet disruptions, and restrictions on media coverage. The opposition, many members of which are imprisoned or exiled, denounced the process as a “farce” and a “ritual” to maintain Lukashenko’s grip on power. Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, an opposition leader in exile, urged voters to reject all candidates and called for the international community not to recognize the result.

The European Union and the European Parliament strongly condemned the election, calling it a “blatant affront to democracy.” Reporters Without Borders filed a complaint against Lukashenko with the International Criminal Court for his crackdown on free speech, noting the arrest of hundreds of journalists since 2020.

Lukashenko’s campaign, marked by posters proclaiming him “Needed!”, emphasized peace and security, contrasting Belarus’s authoritarian rule with the situation in Ukraine. He has fostered close ties with Russia, allowing the use of Belarusian territory for the invasion of Ukraine and hosting Russian tactical nuclear weapons. Analysts suggest the January timing of the election aimed to minimize potential protests amid economic difficulties and the ongoing war. While Lukashenko has hinted at succession by featuring his son, Nikolai, in campaign events, analysts believe he intends to remain in power. The Belarusian government’s actions, including the suppression of opposition and media freedom, have drawn heavy international criticism and sanctions. Despite international condemnation, Lukashenko insisted the election’s legitimacy rests solely on Belarusian recognition and a peaceful conclusion.

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