Belarus President Lukashenko Seeks Seventh Term in January 2025 Vote

Lukashenko to Seek Seventh Term in January Election Amid Opposition Calls for Boycott

Belarus is set to hold its presidential election on January 26, 2025, with incumbent Alexander Lukashenko, a close ally of Russia, seeking his seventh consecutive term in office. The announcement was made by the Central Election Commission (CEC) in Minsk, which stated that parliament had approved the date.

Lukashenko, in power since 1994 following the collapse of the Soviet Union, has been accused of suppressing political opposition and manipulating election results. Since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022, his administration has further clamped down on dissent, making it difficult for opposition forces to mount a challenge.

Opposition Rejects Election as a “Sham”

Opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, who claimed victory in the disputed 2020 election before being forced into exile, condemned the upcoming vote. She labeled it a “sham,” criticizing the lack of alternative candidates and observers. Tsikhanouskaya urged Belarusians and the international community to reject what she described as a “farce.”

“Lukashenka has announced the date of his ‘reelection’,” she posted on social media, adding that “it’s a sham with no real electoral process, conducted in an atmosphere of terror.” Her comments highlight the ongoing struggle of democratic forces in Belarus to unseat Lukashenko and call for non-recognition of the election results.

A History of Controversial Elections

The last presidential election in Belarus, held in 2020, was marred by widespread reports of fraud. The CEC’s declaration of Lukashenko’s victory triggered weeks of mass protests, which nearly brought the country to the brink of revolution. However, a harsh crackdown by Lukashenko’s government quelled the unrest, resulting in thousands of arrests and forcing many, including Tsikhanouskaya, into exile. Belarus currently holds about 1,300 political prisoners, according to the Viasna human rights group.

Belarus and Russia’s Alliance

Since allowing Russian troops to use Belarus as a staging ground for their 2022 invasion of Ukraine, Lukashenko has deepened ties with Moscow. Russia has since announced plans to deploy strategic nuclear weapons in Belarus, with Lukashenko reiterating threats to use them if Belarus is attacked.

As Belarus approaches its January vote, the international community’s response will be critical. The question remains whether calls for non-recognition will gain traction and how the opposition will mobilize under the current climate of repression.

Stay updated with the latest developments in Belarus’ political landscape and the implications of the January 2025 election.

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