Presidential election in Belarus “again failed to meet basic democratic standards”

Joint Statement by the Foreign Affairs Committee Chair David McAllister and Vice-Chair Witold Waszczykowski

“The presidential election that took place in Belarus yesterday once again failed to meet basic democratic standards. In the absence of international observers, the people of Belarus themselves organised independent monitoring and, despite hindrances and harassment from the authorities, noted widespread violations and fraud. Mass protests that erupted following the election show that the people neither trust nor accept the results published by the Central Election Commission.

Belarusians across the country are demanding change. We welcome the unprecedented mobilisation of the society, who showed that they would no longer tolerate their right to participate in free and fair elections being taken away from them. We call on the authorities to refrain from violence and persecution against their own people who wish to express their legitimate demands. All those arbitrarily detained during the election campaign and after it must be released immediately.

This is a pivotal moment for Belarus and for our bilateral relations. Tangible progress regarding democracy, the rule of law and respect for human rights and freedoms is the only way to ensure the sovereignty, stability and development of the Republic of Belarus.”