19 Sep 2020 | 05:14 PM UTC
Belarus: Hundreds arrested in anti-government protests in Minsk on September 19 /update 44
Hundreds arrested in anti-government protests in Minsk on September 19; avoid all demonstrations
Event
Hundreds of anti-government protesters have been arrested in protests in Minsk on Saturday, September 19. The arrests occurred as thousands of people marched through the city demanding the resignation of President Alexander Lukashenko and the release of political prisoners following a disputed presidential election in August.
Associated disruption to transportation and business is expected during the course of the protest. Further associated demonstrations in other urban centers are likely in the near term.
Context
Election officials announced that Lukashenko had won 80 percent of the vote in the presidential election held on August 9, with the main opposition candidate Svetlana Tikhanouskaya gaining 9.9 percent. Lukashenko faced few challenges to his sixth term as president, with his main rivals Valery Tsepkalo and Viktor Babariko being barred from standing. However, the run-up to the election saw increased political tensions and opposition protest activity. Opposition groups have denounced the election results as fraudulent.
Protests have taken place throughout Belarus since the election result was announced, with security forces blocking access to a number of cities as clashes with protesters were reported. Security forces have deployed tear gas, rubber bullets, water cannons, batons, and concussion grenades in attempts to disperse crowds. Tikhanouskaya subsequently went into exile in Lithuania. Lukashenko announced on August 17 that he was ready to potentially relinquish power following a constitutional referendum; however, this has failed to stem the unrest. The recent promise of military support from Russian President Vladimir Putin has seemingly emboldened Lukashenko, which may lead to a new wave of harsh crackdowns on opposition demonstrations in Minsk and other urban centers.
Advice
Those in Belarus, particularly in Minsk, are advised to monitor the situation, avoid all demonstrations and large gatherings, adhere to instructions issued by local authorities and their home governments, and refrain from discussing politically sensitive topics in public or on social media.
