English

Lukashenka acknowledges lack of state ideology in Belarus

Alyaksandr Lukashenka acknowledged on Friday that no proper state ideology had been developed during his 20-year rule.

"I am told that our state ideology is extremely deep patriotism and so on. Patriotism is a must without an ideology, but a fiery thing is needed that would be accepted by the entire public, that people would strive for. In my view, this has not been invented by me or my aides," he told a group of Russian journalists.

"Those dealing with ideology say that we have a state ideology. I as president tell them that it doesn't strike a chord with me and how it will strike a chord with an ordinary person then?"

Government ideologists in Belarus mostly work to prevent criticism of the government's achievements that are "supported by the people's majority," according to Mr. Lukashenka.

He criticized Soviet-era personality cults and said that things were different in Belarus.

"You will not see my image anywhere outside officials' offices, you have not seen and will not see my quotes anywhere. I don't accept any personality cult," he said.

At the same time, Mr. Lukashenka made clear that he would like his successor to honor him in some way. // BelaPAN