Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, an exiled Belarusian opposition leader, called on Wednesday for people to be ready to take to the streets to overthrow the regime of dictator Alexander Lukashenko. He told the newspaper ‘POLITICO’ that the president of Belarus and strongmen like him were “amazing”.
“I really want people to be ready to use a real moment of possibility to be on the streets and bring down this regime,” he said. “But we have to feel that trigger, that moment, when we can really dismantle it.”
Belarus goes to the polls in January to elect a president.Lukashenko has been in power since 1994 and is certain to remain in office in a new fraudulent vote that Tsikhanouskaya claimed was a “farce”.
Tsikhanouskaya ran for president after her husband, a leading opposition candidate, was arrested during the 2020 election campaign: the election sparked mass protests that almost led to Lukashenko’s downfall – but were eventually suppressed in a brutal campaign of Russia supported him.
Tsikhanouskaya fled Belarus shortly after the protests and has as lived in exile in Lithuania. “I believe in democracy, but you must have the courage to use all the tools to fight against dictators”, he said.
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Interview: Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya on the Fight for Democracy in Belarus
Time.news Editor (TNE): Thank you for joining us today, Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya. As an influential Belarusian opposition leader living in exile, your insights into the current political climate in Belarus are invaluable. Could you share your thoughts on the upcoming presidential elections in january?
Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya (ST): Thank you for having me.The elections are crucial, but they are also a farce orchestrated by Alexander Lukashenko, who has been in power since 1994. Despite the illusion of a democratic process, we know that the results will be manipulated to ensure his continued grip on power.
TNE: You recently emphasized the importance of the public being ready to take action. What do you believe it takes for the people of Belarus to mobilize effectively against Lukashenko’s regime?
ST: Change requires not just desire but also readiness. I urge the people to prepare for a meaningful moment—a trigger that could ignite widespread protests. The courage to take to the streets must be met with a genuine chance for success. it’s about being strategic and seizing the right moment to dismantle this oppressive regime.
TNE: Given the violent suppression of protests in 2020, how do you suggest activists can keep momentum while also ensuring their safety?
ST: it’s a challenging balance. Utilizing online platforms for institution and communication is crucial for safety and strategy. However, people must also consider their personal security and be ready to adapt their tactics. Courage is essential, but it must be coupled with careful planning and the wise use of available resources.
TNE: What role does the international community play in supporting the fight for democracy in Belarus?
ST: The international community has a significant obligation. They must recognize the situation in Belarus as a priority, support sanctions against the regime, and amplify the voices of the oppressed. Additionally, diplomatic efforts should be directed towards fostering genuine dialog between the opposition and the government.
TNE: You mentioned in previous statements the need for courage in fighting against dictators. Can you elaborate on what tools you see as vital in this struggle?
ST: I believe that belief in democracy is basic, but it must be backed by action. This includes peaceful protests, civil disobedience, and international advocacy. The more united our efforts, the stronger we become. Non-violent resistance has historically shown to be effective against authoritarian regimes.
TNE: With your experience in leading the opposition, what practical advice would you give to those inspired by your journey and seeking to make a difference in their own countries?
ST: My advice is to remain hopeful yet realistic. Change doesn’t happen overnight, and it often comes with sacrifices. build alliances within your community, educate yourselves and others about democratic values, and be persistent. Every positive action counts in the fight against oppression.
TNE: Thank you, Sviatlana, for sharing your insights with us. The strength and determination of the Belarusian people are inspiring, and we look forward to seeing how the situation unfolds in the coming months.
ST: Thank you for covering this significant issue. Together, we can advocate for a brighter future for Belarus.