4.29.2006

Belarus: Straight from the Horse's Mouth

Belarus has received extensive coverage in the media with the recent elections and the opposition protests that followed the elections. I had a chance to chat with a Belarusian cab driver living in Boston. His perspective, which I’ve transcribed below, is interesting if only because Lukashenko supporters tend not to receive much attention in the mainstream media.

What do you think of the recent elections in Belarus?
You mean, about Lukashenko? I like Lukashenko. I think what the opposition is doing is wrong. They don’t have much support in Belarus. The Americans and Russians don’t like Lukaschenko but he’s good for Belarus. In Russia and other countries, people are not getting pensions and salaries. In Belarus, we get both on time. Also in Russia, there are a few rich people but most people are having a hard time.

What about some of the countries in Eastern Europe? Like Czech Republic or Hungary? They are doing pretty well, right?
I was in Prague for a few years. I drove a cab there as well. It’s not like it used to be during the Soviet times. Now some people have lots of money, there are shops full of goods. But most people don’t have anything. It’s hard to afford anything. In Belarus, everyone is equal and life is good. No crime. Everyone gets their check on time. That is why people support Lukashenko. He thinks about Belarus first. That’s why the Russians and the Americans don’t like him.

How long have you lived in the US?
I’ve lived in the US for 16 years. But even the US is not what it used to be. Bush has given it all away. $3 for gas! Three dollars!!! Same thing in Russia, and Yugoslavia. Things were better before. I’ve been to Yugoslavia. The best in Europe. Wide roads, clean everything, everything worked…And then it all collapsed. It is nothing now.

You know, I worked under Lukashenko, a long time back. He was the president of the village and I worked as a carpenter for him. He is a decent man. He thinks of Belarus. He’s good for Belarus.

Related Links:
Poland Revives Cold-War Tactic: Democracy Via Radio

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