Lukashenko may shut down the internet in Belarus

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko does not rule out the possibility of blocking the internet after the elections if mass rallies break out in the country. Such a development becomes particularly likely against the backdrop of the complete elimination of the opposition and the intensification of censorship.

Elections with a predictable outcome

The elections currently taking place in the country, in which Lukashenko intends to retain the presidential chair for the seventh time, are already devoid of suspense. Four other candidates are listed on the ballot, but all of them are considered fictitious. Independent observers and the international community have not recognised the results of Belarusian elections since 2001.

The voting results are expected to be announced no later than 5 February. However, there are no real chances of a change of power: there is no officially registered opposition in the country, and all independent public organisations have been liquidated.

Strict censorship and repression

Strict censorship is in force in Belarus, which restricts freedom of speech and expression of opinions. Even a simple repost of a publication that is unwelcome to the authorities can result in seven years in prison.

Control over the information space has become a key tool for Lukashenko to suppress dissenters. In the event of protests, the internet may be completely shut down, as already happened in 2020, when mass demonstrations were accompanied by the blocking of social networks and messengers.

A long history of usurpation of power

Alexander Lukashenko has ruled Belarus since 1994. In the early 2000s, he abolished the limit of two presidential terms, which allowed him to effectively seize power indefinitely.

Over nearly three decades of rule, Lukashenko has completely built an authoritarian system in which he maintains control over all key state institutions.