28 October, Grodno /Elena Stasyukevich - BELTA/. CIS observers for the Presidential elections of Belarus have begun their work in the Grodno region, BELTA was informed by the Grodno Regional Commission for the Election of the President of the Republic of Belarus. Today, the observers are familiarizing themselves with the organization of the election campaign in the Grodno district. In particular, they visited the locations where polling stations will be situated and met with territorial commissions. The observers noted that comfortable venues were chosen for the organization of the polling stations and highly praised the professionalism of the commission members. Members of the CIS mission also met with representatives of the initiative groups of four presidential candidates, and no remarks were received from them. In the Grodno region, 730 polling stations have been established for the presidential elections. Of these, 45 polling stations are located in hospitals, sanatoriums, and rest homes, and 5 polling stations are in military units. In the region, 20 territorial commissions for the presidential elections have been formed, comprising 258 individuals. Local authorities at all levels have made every effort to simplify the collection of voter signatures in support of presidential candidates' nominations. Restrictions on picketing apply only to places where their conduct poses a danger to the life and health of citizens, as well as where pickets impede the work of enterprises, organizations, and public movement. Until 31 October inclusive, political parties, public associations, work collectives, and citizens can nominate candidates for inclusion in the composition of precinct commissions. The formation of such commissions will continue until 3 November. The Presidential elections of the Republic of Belarus are scheduled for 19 December 2010. -0-

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