Lukashenko names main criteria for holding elections in Belarus

“We need to study global practices. Yet it is unlikely that they will come in handy, as we have probably studied everything already and made the necessary decisions at home. It is important to develop our own standards, and the key thing here is not whether or not we follow some principles and concepts imposed by the OSCE or some other organizations, but whether our own laws and by-laws comply with the Constitution and whether the elections will comply with the legislation effective in our countries. This is the main thing,” Aleksandr Lukashenko emphasized.

The head of state recalled that a presidential election campaign will soon kick off in Belarus, and the country sticks to the principles he voiced. “The Belarusian people must take it upon themselves, without any pressure, to decide who will run the country,” the president said.

It is also important to guarantee the proper level of security during the election process and make sure people will trust the election outcomes. “We pay special attention to the youth, in particular, the political literacy of young people. We need to explain, tell people how we will live after the election. This is no secret that young people are the main street weapon of color revolutions, so we pay special attention to the youth. We need to find common ground with young voters, and if you have such experience, you will share it with us during your visit to Belarus,” added Aleksandr Lukashenko.

The president is confident that the interaction between the central election bodies of the CIS countries will allow successfully addressing the most pressing tasks and problems. “I would very much like you to continue to maintain this meaningful cooperation between the central election commissions. This, as we say, is worth a lot. We must not lose it under any circumstances,” the Belarusian leader concluded.