Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya: “Yesterday, while Belarusians around the world celebrated Freedom Day, Lukashenka held his so-called ‘inauguration’ – an empty, meaningless spectacle in which a lonely man swore another oath to himself. This was not an act of public recognition or a legitimate transfer of power – it was a desperate, staged performance by the regime, attempting to convince the people of its own support.
State media loudly declared this to be the ‘political event of the year’. And under Lukashenka, that’s true – the most he can do is herd his loyalists into a single hall and create an illusion of power. ‘You are my whole life’, he said during his speech. At that moment, he wasn’t addressing the Belarusian people but rather the officials and security forces who continue to follow his orders out of fear. That is his entire life – tired, resentful, and intimidated people, quietly wondering how much longer this fragile regime can survive.
The so-called ‘inauguration’ on March 25 was not a show of strength but an admission of fear. Lukashenka is afraid of Freedom Day, afraid of historical memory, afraid of the truth. But Belarus is not him. Belarus is its people – people who will not forget the violence, will not forgive the betrayal, and will not accept the lies of propaganda. People who cherish their identity, culture, and independence. No formal ceremony or staged oath can change that.
Yesterday was yet another failed attempt by the regime to rewrite our history. But despite its efforts, the day did not become one of fear and coercion – it remained a day of freedom and dignity. While the streets of Minsk stood empty despite the regime’s performances, Belarusians around the world took to the streets and organized marches, lectures, exhibitions, and concerts to honor the real holiday – Freedom Day. The moment this regime collapses, Belarusians will join hands and march down the avenue, loudly chanting: ‘Long Live Belarus!’”
