Łukašenka appoints new culture minister, other officials

December 2, Pozirk. Alaksandar Łukašenka has appointed actor Rusłan Čarniecki as the new culture minister, to replace Anatol Markievič who had held the post since November 2020, the Belarusian ruler’s press office said.

Born in 1981 in Minsk, Čarniecki holds a degree in theatre and cinema acting and is a current MP, also employed by the Maxim Gorky National Academic Drama Theater.

Łukašenka described him as a very patriotic and dependable man. “I want to tell you like a man, Ruslan you have no other way,” the Belarusian leader told the new minister. “Either die or put this sphere into proper order. We have talents that can do everything, make movies, sing, dance, etc. We will provide you with every possible support.”

The Belarusian ruler also dismissed Siarhiej Nalivajka as tax minister, appointing him as his aide for the Mahiloŭ region. He had served as minister since December 2014.

Łukašenka has also appointed Stanisłaŭ Čapurny as ambassador to Turkmenistan.