MINSK, 21 January (BelTA) - Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko commented on speculations about internet restrictions during the election as he met with the labor collectives of Minsk Automobile Plant (MAZ trademark) and other enterprises of the Belavtomaz holding company on 21 January, BelTA has learned.
When asked about the popularity of blogging and other similar activities among young people, the head of state commented on speculations about internet restrictions during the election.
The president said that blogging is a minor concern for Belarus. Many bloggers, for example, took part in the Marathon of Unity and collaborated with state media. In this regard, the head of state does not consider it necessary to impose any restrictions.
“It is easy to ban something: sign a decree and that is it. Restrictions are not always for the best. We need to win. We should show that we are better. If people say bad things about us, we need to show our good deeds, as we did during the Marathon of Unity. It is harder but more important. It will stay in the hearts and minds of every person,” Aleksandr Lukashenko emphasized.
The president stressed his commitment to taking all necessary measures to ensure the security and safety of the country.
“But we do not need it now. I read what many people wrote, especially our self-exiled opposition: ‘He wants to shut down the internet before the election’. I immediately called the responsible people, officials, and asked them: 'Guys, have you maybe said something about it?'. They said: 'No, we have no right'. I said: 'Look, do not do anything without my knowledge'," Aleksandr Lukashenko stated.
“We never considered this option. If you want to surf the internet, you are free to do so. Moreover, 50% of the information on the internet, or even more, is useful,” the president added.
Aleksandr Lukashenko was asked about the possibility of preventing the spread of lies and misinformation on the internet and whether there are any alternatives to foreign video platforms.
“We can prevent anything. We are not going to play with our state any more. Because it could damage us badly. Who in Belarus is not convinced of that after 2020? I said then: 'Do not rush, time will put everything in its place,” the Belarusian leader recalled.
The president pointed out that there were times when he had to take decisive actions, such as shutting down the internet for an hour or two because of the spread of misinformation: “There was a need then. These were my duties. I made those decisions, realizing that you would not understand them.
I think time will pass, and you will see that they were necessary."
“We have gained the experience. What about now? Now you clearly understand: this or that information on the internet is false. This is not how things are in our country,” the head of state said.
Aleksandr Lukashenko recommends treating false information on the internet calmly, as people already understand a lot of things. “Those who continue to read the opposition media and are happy cannot learn. These people have the same views on life as they did before 2020. Such people can be found in any society. Should we restrict their chatter? Look, to be honest, much of their speculation is beneficial for me and for you too. They say some ridiculous things, but we can say: ''You scoundrels, that is not true!'. We can also tell our neighbors, children, relatives and friends about it,” the head of state said.
Follow us on:
