Charter’97 Web-Site Visitor Reports of Involuntary Voting :: Charter'97 :: News

Throughout September 6 in Zhodino schools they launched at full force the preliminary voting campaign. Hundreds of people with morose faces proceeded toward the electoral stations – the schools’ headmasters obliged the teachers to vote beforehand.

Those who wondered why they should the directors almost begged. Peering into the eyes of the discontent, the headmasters in a whispering voice told them about the ruling of the city hall – personally deputy head Pugachov – to ensure at least 40% of turnout. They pleaded with the teachers not to let them down. Those who declined, mostly young personnel, faced problems at work.

At the same time no calls to engage in pre-voting were voiced at the Belarusian car-building plant. The plant’s leadership and the trade union stand upon a balanced position, trying to isolate their workers from any agitation. “BelAZ” director Mr.Mariev is optimistic over the future of his company and sees benefits in economic revitalization and reducing of state dictate (which will inevitably happen with the replacement of the incumbent).