Opinions & Interviews

MINSK, 12 September (BelTA) – The parliamentary elections are a testimony to Belarus’ advancement on the way of democratization. The statement was made by Sergei Lebedev, CIS Executive Secretary, Chairman of the CIS Executive Committee, head of the CIS observer mission during the parliamentary elections in Belarus, after meeting with Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko, BelTA has learned.

During the meeting with Sergei Lebedev Alexander Lukashenko said: “Everyone understands that you are rooting for us although you are an independent observer. You have always told me truth about what we should improve. And, as you can notice, we have implemented everything you have mentioned.”

The head of state asked Sergei Lebedev about his opinion of the parliamentary elections in Belarus.

According to the head of the CIS observer mission, the elections passed in a calm, organized, and open atmosphere. “They were democratic and transparent. And, the most important thing, they allowed citizens of Belarus to express their free will,” noted Sergei Lebedev.

In his words, the elections had a lot of positive novelties. For instance, there were representatives of opposition groups, political parties and movements in polling station election commissions and among parliamentary candidates. Representatives of the opposition were also elected to the parliament. “It is a testimony to Belarus’ advancement on the way of democratization. Both Belarusian laws and the organization of the elections fully meet the universally recognized democratic election norms,” stated Sergei Lebedev.

Sergei Lebedev also shared his impressions of visiting polling stations and mentioned the rather high voter turnout. “The parliament will get worthy and mature people with a university degree and rich professional and life experience,” believes the CIS Executive Secretary.