Belarusian politics is characterized by a centralized system dominated by President Alexander Lukashenko, who has been in power since 1994. The political landscape is marked by limited opposition, state control over media, and restrictions on civil liberties, which have led to criticism from international organizations. Elections in Belarus are often viewed as neither free nor fair, with allegations of fraud and suppression of dissent. The National Assembly consists of two chambers, but the president holds significant authority, making it challenging for opposition parties to gain traction or influence policy decisions.