Opinions & Interviews

Belarus to use semitransparent ballot boxes, e-voting

MINSK, 19 August (BelTA) – Belarus plans to use semitransparent ballot boxes and electronic voting in the future, Chairperson of the Central Election Commission (CEC) of Belarus Lidia Yermoshina said in an interview to the STV channel, BelTA has learned.

“We are gradually introducing different standards. Some things we have not introduced yet are no longer used in other countries. For example, we have always been pressurized to use transparent ballot boxes everywhere. I can say that this is no longer in fashion. Moreover, it contradicts the international standards. Transparent ballot boxes do not secure the secret expression of voters’ will. Today’s trend is to use semitransparent boxes and apply e-voting. I believe we will be introducing this in the future,” Lidia Yermoshina said.

Speaking about the rotation of the parliament, the CEC chair said that the head of state insists on some one third of MPs to stay for the second term. At the same time, the term of office for every MP should not exceed two terms in a row. “We support and select future candidates taking into consideration all the proportions,” she stressed.

Lidia Yermoshina added that this year the elections will take place on the national holiday, 7 November. According to her, this is a good idea as “the national event will correspond to the national holiday.”

Representatives of international organizations will observe the parliamentary elections in Belarus. The country is ready for criticism. “There is an international practice: we receive a report on the elections and if we are not happy with it, we present our remarks. Then we discuss it will all the missions that have their remarks. We are open for discussion and cooperation. We are used to international observation. The main thing is to elect the parliament that will start operating on time,” she said.

The elections to the Council of the Republic are scheduled for 7 November. The elections to the House of Representatives will take place on 17 November.

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