CIS observation mission detected no serious violations in preparation for Single Voting Day
The CIS observation mission continues to monitor the preparations of Belarus and its civil society for Single Voting Day scheduled to be held on February 25th, and its members have met with Belarus’ Liberal Democratic Party leadership
The party leaders have informed the international observers on the preparations for the most important election campaign this year, emphasising the democratic nature and full transparency of the process. The assistance of the Central Election Commission and authorities at all levels to candidates in their legitimate requests has been recognised. In addition, the meeting focused on the party development, which is real, constructive and truly patriotic, and which has become a serious element of Belarus’ civil society. During the negotiations, the main conclusion – drawn from the experience of the previous election campaigns – was outlined: the country’s fate should not be decided on the street.
Oleg Gaidukevich, the Chairman of the Liberal Democratic Party, announced the arrival of international observers from the EU – Germany, France, Austria and others – to observe the Belarusian elections.
The mission representatives reported that a group of short-term observers will be formed next week, bringing the total number of mission members to about 150 people. The guests informed on their work in various regions of Belarus and noted that no serious violations were detected in the preparations for Single Voting Day.
Igor Barkovsky, a member of the CIS observation mission, noted, “Our mission started working on January 22nd, and its headquarters began to work the same day. The latter is now actively functioning – accumulating all information from long-term observers, systematising documents, and accrediting its observers. There are already about 50 long-term observers, they work in Minsk and all regions of Belarus. Initially, these people observed the registration process of candidates for deputies, and now they are actively monitoring the progress of the campaign. We ask any questions, including regarding the registration procedure, and clarify whether there have been any violations or difficulties.”
Speaking of whether the international observers have faced any difficulties or obstacles in their work, Mr. Barkovsky noted, “We experience no difficulties. All government and management bodies are open. We have already met with representatives of the Interior Ministry, the Supreme Court, and the Prosecutor General's Office, and they demonstrated openness all the time, providing us with all the necessary information that helps us make conclusions at this stage of the election campaign. Our meetings with representatives of other political parties are scheduled as well.”
