The inauguration ceremony of Alexander Lukashenko took place in the Belarusian Palace of Independence.
According to BelTA agency, several hundred people were invited to the ceremony. Among them are statesmen of the republic, figures of science, culture and sports, as well as journalists.
“Assuming the office of President of the Republic of Belarus, I solemnly swear to faithfully serve the people of the Republic of Belarus, respect and protect the rights and freedoms of man and citizen, observe and protect the Constitution of the Republic of Belarus, sacredly and conscientiously fulfill the high duties entrusted to me”, – Lukashenko said, putting right hand on the constitution.
After that, he was handed a certificate of the head of the republic.
The inauguration is taking place against the backdrop of pressure from Western countries, which refused to recognize Lukashenko as president, citing claims by housewife Svetlana Tikhanovskaya, who lost the election. Hiding in Lithuania, she claims that the vote was rigged. Although there is no evidence of this, the countries of the European Union and the United States are on the side of the opposition and support the attempted coup in Belarus.