Belarus leader accuses opposition of trying to 'seize power'

Belarusian strongman Alexander Lukashenko on Tuesday accused the opposition of attempting to seize power in the wake of mass protests against disputed presidential elections. Belarus's security forces brutally dispersed massive street demonstrations that erupted in the wake of the August 9 presidential vote which the opposition said was rigged to ensure Lukashenko's victory.

The authoritarian leader's closest rival Svetlana Tikhanovskaya fled to neighbouring Lithuanian after declaring victory in the vote and announced the creation of the Coordination Council to ensure the transfer of power. Lukashenko warned that the authorities would take "adequate measures" against opposition figures who participated in the council, saying that any response would be taken within the limits of the law. Lukashenko also accused the opposition of preparing to cut ties with Minsk's most powerful ally, Russia, which has said it is ready to intervene in post-election turmoil if needed.