Minsk: Alexander Lukashenko, Belarus’s president since 1994, won a controversial seventh term in the recently held presidential election. Official results declared Lukashenko’s victory with an overwhelming 86.8% of the vote, further solidifying his three-decade grip on power.
Unlike the turbulent 2020 election, which saw massive protests, Sunday’s election had no significant competition. Opposition voices had been silenced, and one candidate admitted they were only participating symbolically.
A Key Russian Ally Amid Regional Conflict
Belarus remains a vital ally of Russia, hosting Russian tactical nuclear weapons and supporting its military actions against Ukraine. The country allowed Russian forces to stage their February 2022 invasion from Belarusian soil.
Lukashenko’s dependence on Moscow has intensified following his survival of the political crisis in 2020. Kremlin-backed support ensured he could suppress dissent and maintain his regime.
2020 Protests Still Echo
The 2020 election saw Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya emerge as an unexpected opposition leader after her husband was imprisoned. Mass protests erupted, challenging Lukashenko’s victory claims and drawing global attention to Belarus.
With Russia’s help, Lukashenko quelled these protests, imprisoning thousands and forcing opposition figures into exile. The Belarusian rights group Viasna reports over 1,200 political prisoners remain detained.
Opposition Condemns Election as a “Charade”
Tsikhanouskaya, now exiled in Lithuania, refrained from urging protests this year, citing risks to public safety. Instead, she encouraged Belarusians to reject all ballot options in what she called “a meticulously crafted farce.”
The European Union’s foreign policy chief, Kaja Kallas, condemned the election as neither free nor fair. She labeled it a blatant assault on democratic values.
Lukashenko Dismisses Western Criticism
After casting his vote, Lukashenko dismissed international disapproval, claiming the process was democratic. He also mocked opposition leaders, saying, “Don’t hold your breath” waiting for him to leave power.
Lukashenko’s comments came as the Kremlin and China congratulated him on his victory. Meanwhile, the West continued to express skepticism over Belarus’s political future.
Experts Say Power Shift Unlikely
Former UK ambassador to Belarus, Nigel Gould-Davies, said Lukashenko is unlikely to step down voluntarily. He noted autocratic rulers often resist relinquishing power, fearing instability.
The Belarusian leader has shown no signs of planning for succession, maintaining control and dismissing opposition efforts.
A Long Road Ahead for Belarus
As Lukashenko begins another term, his regime faces international scrutiny. The path to democratization remains uncertain as the leader tightens his grip further.
Western nations, along with opposition leaders, vow to continue advocating for the people of Belarus and their rights.
