Pavel Latushka: We Are a Real Factor and a Political Subject That Cannot Be Ignored

"For the first time in modern history, we have created a fully-fledged system of political institutions.

This is a proactive political alternative to the Lukashenko regime today. And it is absolutely necessary for the political transformation of Belarus tomorrow.

We have not dissolved into a network of fragmented initiatives. We have built a political subject abroad.

The political influence of our institutions is confirmed by the regime's reaction. It has recognized our institutions as extremist and terrorist organizations. It employs extraterritorial persecution through trials held in absentia and active operations by the security services against us. The regime uses disinformation and discrediting campaigns, and creates threats to our lives. This is unprecedented pressure. The regime expends enormous resources in its fight against us. They want to destroy this political alternative. All of this proves: we are a real factor and a political subject that cannot be ignored", — Pavel Latushka stated.

Pavel Latushka also emphasized that the Cabinet regards economic and personal sanctions not as a formality, but as a powerful and pragmatic lever. The goal is to compel the regime to change its policy:

"In this way we create conditions under which the search for a political way out becomes the only rational scenario for the regime".

Pavel Latushka separately highlighted the importance of the Round Table concept as a means of resolving the deep crisis in Belarus:

"We are convinced that direct negotiations between the international community and the regime will not work. Attempts to bypass Belarusian society and the democratic forces will not resolve the crisis. Internal transformation is impossible without internal dialogue and the inclusion of society."

Pavel Latushka placed particular emphasis during his address on the importance of participation in the elections to the Coordination Council:

"Politics is accountability to society and a legitimate mandate. We cannot play a serious role in Belarus's future without the confirmed will of its citizens. An electoral mandate gives us the right to represent Belarusian society — both at this table today, and at the Round Table tomorrow".

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