Observers say Belarus election was sub-standard

Parliamentary elections in Belarus have been condemned by neutral observers after a whitewash victory for President Alexander Lukashenko.

Only MPs supporting his policies won seats, and the critical assessment by the Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe is likely to cement the country's diplomatic isolation.

The OSCE said Sunday's election did not meet international standards. Mr Lukashenko has ruled since 1994 and Western observers have criticised all recent elections in Belarus as undemocratic.

AP