Hrodna Regional Election Commission rejects complaint by local BPF leader Vadzim Saranchukou

On March 17, the Hrodna Regional Election Commission, as reported by an independent observer Viktar Sazonau who attended its latest meeting, considered two questions – a complaint by the chairman of the city branch of the BPF Party Vadzim Saranchukou and preparations for the elections by representatives of the police and the Ministry of Emergencies.

The registration of Vadzim Saranchukou as a candidate for the City Council in constituency No. 7 was canceled at the time when the campaign had already started. The City Commission, further examining his papers, stated that the applicant incorrectly filled out an income tax return. The position of the City Commission on the complaint was represented by its chairman Uladzimir Khliabich. Vadzim Saranchukou argued in his complaint that he was not supposed to specify in his declaration the property of his wife, as provided by applicable law. The Commission argues that its decision was made in accordance with the relevant decisions of the CEC. As a result, the Regional Commission took the side of the city election officials and unanimously dismissed the complaint lodged by Saranchukou. Thus, the elections to the Hrodna City Council will be almost unopposed and has turned into a formal vote. However, Vadzim Saranchukou still intends to challenge the decisions of the city and the regional commissions in court.

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