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Lukashenko Poised for Seventh Term in Belarus Amid 30-Year Rule and Opposition Repression

Jan 25, 2025, 01:00 PM

Belarusians are set to vote in a presidential election on January 26, 2025, which is widely expected to see incumbent President Alexander Lukashenko, who has been in power for 30 years and is now 70 years old, secure a seventh term. Lukashenko faces minimal opposition as most of his political rivals are either imprisoned or exiled. The election has been criticized by the opposition and international observers as a 'sham' due to the lack of credible competition and the ongoing repression of dissent. The European Union and other international bodies have condemned the electoral process, with the EU describing it as a 'farce' and lacking democratic legitimacy. Lukashenko's regime has intensified its crackdown on opposition and civil society since the 2020 election, with over 1,200 political prisoners currently detained, including Nobel Peace Prize laureate Ales Bialiatski. In the lead-up to the election, Lukashenko has pardoned some political prisoners, possibly as a gesture to soften his image internationally. Out of 6.8 million eligible voters, 27% participated in early voting. The election is seen as a means for Lukashenko to further consolidate his power, amid a backdrop of economic challenges and increased reliance on Russia.