Belarus to Hold Presidential Election January 2025

Belarus is scheduled to hold its presidential election on January 26, 2025, as announced by the Central Election Commission and approved by the House of Representatives. This will be the first presidential election since 2020, which was marred by widespread allegations of fraud and a subsequent crackdown on dissent led by President Alexander Lukashenko, who has ruled since 1994. Critics, including exiled opposition leader Svetlana Tikhanovskaya, have dismissed the upcoming election as a 'sham' and expressed concerns over the lack of alternative candidates and independent observers. Amidst a climate of political repression, Belarus currently has around 1,300 political prisoners. The election date aligns with constitutional requirements, allowing for elections to be held no later than two months before the previous president's term ends. The international community is urged to reject the election process, which is seen as lacking legitimacy.