OSCE Did Not Recognize "Elections" In Belarus

They did not comply with international standards.

International observers from the OSCE/ODIHR and the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly believe that the parliamentary "elections" in Belarus did not meet important international standards for democratic elections, tut.by reports.

This was stated by OSCE Special Coordinator for Europe Margareta Sederfelt at a press conference in Minsk.

- Basic freedoms were not respected, and the objectivity of the electoral process was not properly guaranteed in the early parliamentary elections in Belarus, despite the increase in the number of registered candidates - such a conclusion was reached by international observers in their preliminary statement.

OSCE Special Coordinator Margareta Sederfelt stated that the so-called elections took place in a calm atmosphere, but did not meet important international standards for democratic elections.

- We observed a general disregard for the fundamental freedoms of expression, assembly and association. In addition, we observed that a large number of candidates registered to participate in the "elections", but their participation was limited. These "elections" demonstrated a complete lack of compliance with democratic commitments. In a state where the powers and independence of the "parliament" are limited and the fundamental freedoms of both voters and candidates are infringed, there is a danger that the parliamentary "elections" may become a formality, - Sederfelt said.

The OSCE representatives once again concluded that the legal system of Belarus does not guarantee democratic "elections". After the last "elections," some efforts were made to change the electoral legislation, but the Belarusian authorities did not take any concrete steps.

- Our previous recommendations to change the electoral legislation remain in force. They relate to the limited composition of commissions, candidate rights and transparency of the counting process. Yesterday we witnessed a sad result, - the special coordinator added.