Belarus parliament elections

MINSK, 11 September (BelTA) – State Secretary of the Union State Grigory Rapota stated while commenting on the election campaign to reporters that he was impressed with active participation of voters in this year’s parliamentary elections in Belarus, BelTA has learned.

“I am impressed the voters’ active participation. The turnout has even exceeded the forecasts I heard during my visits to polling stations,” said Grigory Rapota. The CIS observation mission will prepare its report where the voter turnout figures will be specified. In his words, voters’ activity could have been influenced by a bigger number of candidates at the 2016 parliamentary campaign, which meant tougher competition.

“There are no remarks regarding the organization of the elections. There has been created the corresponding friendly and even festive atmosphere,” the State Secretary said.

Grigory Rapota also praised the early voting practices, stressing that it is comfortable for the electorate. “I have no reasons not to trust this institution. Ballots boxes were sealed. The voting was monitored by observers,” he noted.

Grigory Rapota did not give any recommendations on improving the election campaign in the country. In his words, Belarusians are building their life, their future themselves. It is always useful to study other countries’ practices. There is no need, however, in adopting all the things, Grigory Rapota added.