October 24,
Vitebsk . At a meeting in the Vitebsk region,
Belarusian President ALEXANDER LUKASHENKO spoke out against simple decisions and taking the path of least resistance, BelTA reports.
The
HEAD of state explained his demand using the example of agro-industrial associations previously created in the region. The president recalled that at the time,
it was proposed to completely strip the independence of the heads of enterprises that would join these associations. "I categorically said: no, that's not necessary," Alexander Lukashenko recalled. "Let the collective farms that you united under the umbrella of dairies and
MEAT processing plants... So that they can operate and have an interest."
Now the head of state is being asked to make a decision and reunite, only this time making two structures instead of seven. The president questioned the rigor of this proposal. "You've probably taken the path of least resistance. If seven enterprises are operating at half capacity, then if two remain operational, they will be at 100%. Efficiency will be higher. And then what? What about the people? The schools? The competencies developed here? Of course, it would be better for these seven to be at 100%. Ideal. But it's long, difficult, I don't want to, and I'll be criticized. So why are you trying to foist simple solutions on me?" Alexander Lukashenko asked. In this regard, the president emphasized that sufficient conditions have been created in many respects, the necessary decisions have been made, and the only thing that is often lacking is discipline. "We need to grit our teeth and do what needs to be done," the head of state advised. "We need to get everyone involved so they can work and get things done. Basic order needs to be restored."
"You simply lack the whip and ironclad responsibility," the President addressed those present.
"Let's proceed from the ground (in decision-making - BelTA). We need down-to-earth proposals. But don't lie. By deceiving me, you are forcing me to make the wrong decisions," the Belarusian leader warned.
Alexander Lukashenko noted that the Prosecutor General and
the State Control Committee reported on holding officials accountable for various offenses. However, the President pointed out that among them were primarily deputy leaders, and now the time had come to hold leaders accountable too.
"Where were the leaders when the deputies were embezzling and taking bribes? I doubt the deputy did this without you. Only he took the blame and went to jail, and the leader probably said: I'll get you out. Guys, no one will get anyone out," Alexander Lukashenko warned. "Everyone is equal before the law. Justice is the foundation of my policy. The moment I deviate from this, disaster will follow."
"We need to calm down and deliver results. If you deliver results, come to me, to
the government , and ask for what we owe you," the President concluded. "We will do everything for the people who want to help the state."