English

Former National Bank head Pyotr Prakapovich appointed presidential aide

Alyaksandr Lukashenka, by his August 17 edict, appointed Pyotr Prakapovich, a former head of the National Bank of Belarus, as presidential aide.

The 69-year-old Prakapovich succeeded Syarhey Tkachow, who was relived of his position to be transferred to another job, the Belarusian leader's press office said, without elaborating.

Mr. Tkachow served as economic aide to the head of state since October 2001. He has repeatedly criticized representatives of the so-called reform wing within the government.

Pyotr Prakapovich was dismissed by Mr. Lukashenka on July 18, 2011.

The dismissal came a month after the ailing Prakapovich de facto quit his job.

Mr. Prakapovich took sick leave in early April and had his heart valve replaced in a surgical procedure later that month. He returned to his duties on May 18.

Nine days later, Mr. Lukashenka threatened to dismiss Prime Minister Mikhail Myasnikovich and Mr. Prakapovich if they failed to "stabilize" the situation in the country's exchange and consumer markets.

Speaking to reporters on June 23, Mr. Lukashenka revealed that Mr. Prakapovich "will not return to the National Bank."

"Both he and the government made mistakes, and I should acknowledge that," he said, commenting on the performance of Mr. Prakapovich.

Mr. Prakapovich will continue working in the interests of the state after he completes his rehabilitation course, he said.

Mr. Prakapovich was appointed as head of the National Bank in 1998. In January 2011, Mr. Lukashenka extended his term in office until December 31, 2015.

Born in the village of Rowna, Pruzhany district, Brest region, Mr. Prakapovich was awarded the title of Hero of Belarus in March 2006. He also holds the title of Honorary Construction Worker of the Republic of Belarus.