Belarus Prez pitches for reform as Trump eyes crisis

Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko has called for fresh amendments in the constitution soon after US President Donald Trump said that he is following the growing unrest very closely.

Minsk:Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko said on Monday the country could have a new presidential election, but only after approving an amended version of its constitution - an apparent bid to buy some time amid the growing political crisis.

On the ninth straight day of mass protests over the official results of the August 9 presidential election that demonstrators say was rigged, Lukashenko flew by helicopter to a factory in the capital of Minsk to try to rally support, but he was met by angry workers.

As he spoke, over 5,000 striking workers from the Minsk Tractor Plant marched down the streets of the city, joining an increasing number of state-controlled factories across the nation of 9.5 million in walking off the job.

Lukashenko told the factory workers that those who intend to strike could leave if they want, but he added that the protests are ruining the economy and said the country would collapse if he steps down.

The strikes follow peaceful post-election demonstrations last week that were met by a brutal police crackdown with rubber bullets, tear gas, clubs and stun grenades.

At least 7,000 were detained, with many complaining they were beaten mercilessly. One protester was killed and hundreds were wounded.

The Interior Ministry said that just 122 detainees were still in custody as of Monday.

AP