Belarus parliament elections

MINSK, 11 July (BelTA) – Local authorities should follow the example of Minsk in terms of designation of venues for campaigns and rallies to collect signatures for nomination of candidates to the House of Representatives, CEC Secretary Nikolai Lozovik said in an interview with the ONT TV channel on 10 July, BelTA has learned.

Nikolai Lozovik recalled that not long ago local authorities took the decision on the allocation of such venues.

“We call upon the local authorities to follow the example of Minsk. The city has allowed campaigning everywhere except for some places,” the CEC Secretary said.

Some local authorities have opted for minimum restrictions. Other decided to narrow the scope of activity of the initiative groups, he added.

According to him, in the second case the local authorities banned holding campaign events at bus stops, train stations, shopping centers, etc. “Where else, I wonder, can they campaign?” Nikolai Lozovik said.

As was reported, the nomination of candidates, including through collection of signatures, began in Belarus on 3 July and will end on 1 August. According to the latest data, a total of 304 initiative groups have been registered in Belarus. Candidates will also be nominated by political parties and labor collectives.