Belarus Sets January 26 Election Amidst Criticism of Lukashenko's Rule

The upcoming election is expected to extend Alexander Lukashenko's three-decade presidency, despite widespread allegations of electoral fraud and repression.

Belarus's Central Election Commission announced the presidential election date for January 26, 2025, likely securing a seventh term for Alexander Lukashenko.
Opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, in exile, has called for the international community to reject the election as a 'farce' due to the lack of genuine electoral process.
Lukashenko, in power since 1994, has been accused of suppressing political dissent and manipulating elections, with the 2020 vote leading to mass protests and a harsh crackdown.
Belarusian authorities have not confirmed whether international observers will be allowed to monitor the upcoming election, following restrictions in recent parliamentary elections.
Human rights groups report approximately 1,300 political prisoners in Belarus, highlighting ongoing repression under Lukashenko's regime.