Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko has secured another term through a widely denounced “sham” election, marking his seventh consecutive victory. The election highlights ongoing human rights abuses, suppression of dissent, and lack of political freedom in the country.
Lukashenko Wins Another Disputed Election
Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko has won a “sham” presidential election with an overwhelming 87.6% of the vote. This marks his seventh term in office, continuing a 30-year rule widely criticized for its lack of legitimacy. While four opposition candidates appeared on the ballot, all were loyal to Lukashenko, with one openly stating they were aligned with his administration.
International Rejection of Lukashenko’s Legitimacy
The European Union, United Kingdom, and United States have refused to recognize the results of the election. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas called the election a “blatant affront to democracy” and reiterated that Lukashenko has no legitimacy. The election follows a history of fraudulent practices, including the 2020 election that sparked massive protests before being brutally suppressed.
Muted Public Reaction in Belarus
Unlike the protests of 2020, public reaction to the latest election was subdued. Many attribute this to the harsh crackdown on dissent in recent years, with activists facing imprisonment or exile. Over half a million Belarusians have fled the country since the last election. Fear of repression has silenced many, with opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya now operating in exile.
Opposition Voices in Exile
From Warsaw, Tsikhanouskaya led demonstrations calling for freedom and honoring those who have fought against Lukashenko’s regime. Despite the repression, she remains optimistic about Belarus’s future, urging unity and resilience among Belarusians both at home and abroad. However, economic advisor Aleś Alachnovič acknowledged that the risks of protesting inside Belarus outweigh the perceived benefits, leaving many citizens feeling powerless.
Lukashenko’s Defiance Toward the West
Lukashenko dismissed criticisms of the election, stating that prison or exile was a consequence for those who “broke the law.” Despite releasing over 250 prisoners in the past year, including an American, he denied these actions were attempts to improve relations with the West. “I don’t give a damn about the West,” he told reporters, emphasizing Belarus’s alignment with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
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