Lukashenka Confident He'll Remain In Power

Belarusian President Alyaksandr Lukashenka

Belarusian President Alyaksandr Lukashenka has made jokes at the idea that this month's presidential election could weaken his grip on power.

When asked by a reporter in the Kremlin about a possible change of power in the polls, Lukashenka said: "What political changes? What are you hinting at? You must be fed up with me."

He added that "There will definitely be political changes, I am sure you meant political changes in general, but no change of power in Belarus."

Lukashenka is seeking a fourth term in the December 19 election. The Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe has never recognised an election in Belarus as free and fair.

(Reuters)