On January 27, 2025, the Central Election Commission of Belarus announced that Alexander Lukashenko has been re-elected for a seventh term, receiving approximately 87% of the votes, according to state media reports. This victory allows Lukashenko, who has been in power since 1994, to remain in office until 2030.
The opposition, largely in exile and not recognizing Lukashenko's legitimacy, called on supporters to vote for the option 'against all candidates' as a form of peaceful protest. The vote against all candidates garnered 5.1% of the ballots cast, indicating significant dissent among the populace.
International reactions have been swift, with EU officials labeling the elections as a blatant affront to democracy. Kaja Kallas, the EU’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs, stated that Lukashenko's claim to the presidency lacks legitimacy and that the elections were neither free nor fair.
Political analysts have expressed skepticism regarding the reported election results, asserting that the figures announced are disconnected from reality. The voter turnout was reported at 85.7%, slightly higher than in the previous election, which saw Lukashenko receiving 80.1% of the votes amid widespread allegations of fraud.
In a recent public address, Lukashenko dismissed concerns regarding Western recognition of the elections, emphasizing that the approval of the Belarusian people is what truly matters. He also reiterated his commitment to maintaining stability in the region, particularly in light of ongoing tensions with Ukraine.
Human rights organizations continue to report significant repression in Belarus, with thousands having fled the country since the last elections in 2020. The current political climate remains tense, with fears of reprisals stifling public discourse on political matters.