The law, which decrees that the president becomes a permanent member of the upper house of the Belarusian parliament after completing his term, will prevent Lukashenko from being prosecuted. "This will prevent leaders from being prosecuted for decisions made with the authorities of the Presidency," the statement said.
Under the new law signed by Lukashenko on Wednesday, heads of state and their families will receive lifelong state-funded protection and will be given a house upon completion of their term in office.
The new law also requires presidential candidates to be at least 40 years old and have lived in Belarus for 20 years. Those with a second citizenship from another country will no longer be eligible to run for the country's highest office.
