Anfimov: CIS observation mission aims to help Belarus hold transparent, democratic elections

The CIS observation mission pursues certain goals, but the key one is to assist in holding free, democratic, transparent elections of deputies at all levels in accordance with current legislation – as stated by the CIS First Deputy Secretary General, Leonid Anfimov, who heads the office of the CIS observation mission

Leonid Anfimov has met with the Deputy Prosecutor General of Belarus, Maksim Voronin, to discuss preparations for Single Voting Day when deputies of the House of Representatives and local councils will be elected. The maintenance of law and order in the country during the electoral campaign was also high on the agenda.

“While monitoring the preparation and conduct of electoral campaigns, the mission has gained some experience. Of course, there are some nuances related to the holding of Single Voting Day in Belarus, but I believe they will not affect the quality of our work. Our task is to give the most objective, reliable picture of what is happening, to evaluate the work of state bodies, the Central Election Commission, and local authorities in their organisation of Single Voting Day, and definitely to assist Belarus in holding free, democratic, transparent elections in accordance with the law,” the CIS First Deputy Secretary General said.

According to Mr. Anfimov, this task should in no way entail interference in Belarus’ internal affairs by the observation mission. In this regard, the latter’s work is based only on the current legislation, which defines the goals and objectives of the mission, as well as on the international treaties, concepts and agreements of the CIS heads of state.

“On behalf of the office of the CIS observation mission, the Executive Committee has sent letters to the Supreme Court, the Prosecutor General's Office and the Interior Ministry (that are involved in monitoring compliance with the legality of the elections) with a request to provide assistance. It is important for us to understand how the Prosecutor General's Office works in this direction, and how it will respond in case of complaints. Of course, I hope that there will be no complaints and the elections will be held in accordance with the law, calmly and transparently. I hope the Belarusian people will make their choice based on wisdom and balanced approaches when voting for candidates,” Mr. Anfimov stated.