Ryzhenkov: we hold elections for our country, rather than for the sake of political statements from abroad

Belarus is holding elections for itself, rather than for the sake of some OSCE observers or political statements and recommendations that will pour in from abroad. There is only one goal: to conduct the election campaign flawlessly and in accordance with the law – as stated by First Deputy Head of the Belarus President Administration Maksim Ryzhenkov during a speech at a round table, aimed to explain innovations in electoral legislation, the peculiarities of holding elections of deputies on a single voting day and elections of delegates to the Belarusian People’s Congress. The event – organised by the Central Election Commission following the meeting of the President with political parties’ leaders – was attended by representatives of Belarusian parties and the largest public associations.

During his speech, the First Deputy Head of the President Administration also noted the importance of internal election observation, “This is an important tool for building confidence in the election campaign and improving the electoral process for the future. We’re obliged to use the widest possible resource, including public associations and trade unions, to organise this process at the highest level to increase confidence in the election campaign.”

Maksim Ryzhenkov also touched upon the topic of the formation of the Belarusian People’s Congress, noting that it will include 400 people from public associations, “This is a third of the total number. This is a serious resource for participation in making fateful decisions for our state. The selection of your representatives to this constitutional body must be approached as wisely and competently as possible.”