Ocean County Leader

U.S. Representative Chris Smith, a senior member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee and author of the Belarus Democracy and Human Rights Act, has addressed the recent election in Belarus, labeling it fraudulent. Smith criticized Alexander Lukashenko's proclamation of victory as a sham.

"’Europe’s last dictator,’ Alexander Lukashenko, has done it again – another farcical proclamation of bogus election victory," said Smith. He emphasized the need for continued U.S. support for Belarus's democracy movement and highlighted the increase in political prisoners, which now number nearly 1,300.

Smith has authored three U.S. laws targeting Lukashenko's regime and supporting democratic efforts in Belarus. "I’ve authored three U.S. laws sanctioning Lukashenka and his henchmen, and crafting policies to support the Belarusan democratic resistance," he stated.

The representative plans to introduce a new Belarus Democracy Act to enhance current legislation addressing the situation in Belarus. He expressed hope that Belarusians will eventually experience free elections without fear.

Smith is recognized for his contributions to human rights legislation in Belarus through acts like H.R. 854 (2004), H.R. 5948 (2006), and H.R. 515 (2011). These laws impose sanctions on Lukashenko's regime, including visa denials and commercial restrictions with U.S entities.

The laws demand the release of political prisoners and a shift towards democracy before lifting sanctions on Belarusian officials.