The Brest regional branch of the Belarusian Social Democratic Party "Hramada" (BSDP) has begun preparations for the April 2010 local elections, Ihar Maslowski, head of the branch, told BelaPAN. Participation in the election campaign was under discussion at a November 17 meeting of the party's regional committee, Mr. Maslowski said.
The party's organizations and chapters in the Brest region have until December 1 to submit their proposals regarding the candidate, he said.
Mr. Maslowski welcomed the amendments to the Electoral Code that are proposed by the central election commission.
The regional organization of the BSDP hopes to win seats in local soviets and will therefore prioritize "the quality" of the candidates, he said. At the same time talks will begin with other opposition forces in the region to ensure that there is only one opposition candidate in an electoral district, Mr. Maslowski said.
People are concerned about local problems, including conditions in their yards, the availability of children's playgrounds, the renovation of houses and janitorial services, he said.
A number of such problems were solved as a result of a campaign conducted by the regional organization of the United Democratic Forces, of which the BSDP is a member, Mr. Maslowski said.
People became better acquainted with the opposition coalition as a result of the campaign and are now likely to vote for its candidates, he said.
