Presidential election 2015 in Belarus

MINSK, 8 July (BelTA) – Invitations to take part in observing the Belarus president election have been sent to all the international organizations. Chairwoman of the Central Election Commission (CEC) of Belarus Lidia Yermoshina made the statement on the air of the Belarusian TV channel ONT, BelTA has learned.

According to Lidia Yermoshina, invitations to take part in observing the Belarus president election will be received by the heads of election authorities of other countries, foreign politicians and public figures by the end of July.

The head of Belarus’ CEC also spoke about initiative groups, who are supposed to collect signatures for nominating presidential candidates. “As far as initiative groups are concerned, the Central Election Commission has received no applications so far. But then we can see the point of view of the candidates. There is no rush. They will be able to get nominated only on 23 July at the earliest,” said Lidia Yermoshina. “Obviously they either have run into certain problems or are ‘polishing’ the lists of their initiative groups. This is why we expect them mainly next week. I think we will be able to tell voters about the first future candidates as soon as 13-14 July.”

During the broadcast it was noted that the registration of initiative groups of the future presidential candidates is to be completed by 23 July. Signatures in support of the candidates will be collected till 21 August. Organizational matters will be taken care of during the period. In particular, government agencies in the regions will choose locations suitable for picketing and for collecting signatures in support of presidential candidates. Underground pedestrian crossings, the metro system, and large squares will be off limits. The CEC has already prepared guidelines, calendars, and blank forms for collecting signatures. Initiative groups will be able to use the materials free of charge if the candidate has not managed to set up a personal fund in time.

The Belarus president election has been scheduled for 11 October 2015. Early voting will be arranged on 6-10 October. This year plans have been made to open about 40 polling stations in embassies and consulates where Belarusians, who live abroad, will be able to cast their votes.