The Hrodna-based “Hrodzenskaya Prauda” state-run newspaper is engaged in campaigning for local pro-government candidates Vasil Mikhno and Aliaksandr Siahodnik, says human rights defender and observer Raman Yurhel.

The newspaper’s issue of 27 August features an article entitled “Hrodna hosts August meeting of educators” that promotes the two candidates running in local constituencies No. 48 and 50.

According to Raman Yurhel, the publication constitutes a violation of Art. 46 and 47 of the Electoral Code, which guarantees equal conditions for election campaigning, while the pro-government candidates have abused their authority.

“Human Rights Defenders for Free Elections”