Babrujsk: elections start without surprises, electoral teams are being formed
The electoral campaign in Babrujsk was launched quietly, without any surprises. The local opposition parties and their branches have already determined their pretenders for candidates and are forming the electoral teams (initiative groups).
Babrujsk coordinator of the campaign "Tell the Truth!" Alena Miadzvedzeva says that her team has not changed much since the last election.
“As it was during the previous presidential election, some members of the local branch of the United Civil Party, the Social Democratic Party and activists of the independent trade unions will work for us. All of them are reliable people who know what to do. Recently, we have collected 25,000 signatures for the "People's Referendum", which means we will cope with the task of collecting enough signatures in support of the candidacy of Tatsiana Karatkevich. Of course, in spite of our experience, we need to be ready for changes, because the electoral legislation is changed, and sometimes even a small, almost indistinguishable nuance proves to be important. We watch the news and warn our team,” pointed Alena Miadzvedzeva.
Chair of Babrujsk branch of the Belarusian Social Democratic Party "Hramada" Yury Hryniavetski said he and his fellow party members decided not to support anyone at the elections, but are going to take part in election observation.
Members of the UCP are creating the electoral team for nomination the candidacy of Anatol Liabedzka, members of “Fair World” - for the nomination of Siarhei Kaliakin. Members of the Belarusian Christian Democracy – for the nomination of Mikalai Statkevich.
“We cannot support any contenders if political prisoners are still held in prison,” argues the Babrujsk BCD coordinator Taisiya Kabanchuk. “That's why we decided to nominate Mr. Statkevich, though we understand he won't be registered. However, it is interesting for us too find what Babrujskers think of the elections, and this campaign gives us a wonderful opportunity to speak with the people and share our thoughts. I will also be the regional coordinator of the BCD campaign “Right to Elect”. We will monitor the elections in Babrujsk.”
"Human Rights Defenders for Free Elections"