Łukašenka voices opposition to KGB expansion

August 7, Pozirk. Belarus’ top security officials met in Minsk today to discuss proposals for reforming the Committee for State Security (KGB), according to a statement from the Belarusian leader’s press office.

The statement did not detail the proposals, which were initially put forward “some time ago” by KGB chief Ivan Tertel and later revised by Alaksandar Valfovič, the state secretary of the Security Council.

Alaksandar Łukašenka emphasized that while he had no intention of reducing funding for the KGB or lowering its agents’ salaries, he firmly opposed any increase in its staffing levels.

“You see what is going on,” the press office quoted him as saying. “We are witnessing a shift of labor from civilian professions to military roles. That’s why we need workers in the production sector first and foremost. We have no right to pull people away from there. This applies to everyone, including the Committee for State Security, in terms of staffing.”

In addition to Łukašenka, the meeting was attended by Tertel, Valfovič, Prosecutor General Andrej Švied, former KGB deputy chief Ihar Sierhiejenka, and former KGB chief Valeryj Vakulčyk.

Łukašenka has ruled Belarus since 1994. The KGB remains the primary agency enabling him to maintain power and suppress dissent.

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