Lukashenko underwent significant alterations in a photo editing process
In a recent development, foreign photographers and videos have undermined the attempts of Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko's press service to hide his appearance and health issues for a short time.
The evidence, which includes images from foreign photographers and videos, contradicts the efforts of the press service to conceal Lukashenko's health issues. This comes after the publication of a report by Solidarnast, which suggested that Lukashenko and Russian President Vladimir Putin called on Kyiv to surrender.
The report also stated that several photos of Lukashenko in the Valamo extended photo report appear to be retouched, making him appear with a thinner face, less noticeable wrinkles, and fewer bags under the eyes. This stark contrast with his own previous photos raises questions about the authenticity of his public image.
Evidence of photo retouching in images of Lukashenko is not new. During periods of political unrest, such as following the contested elections and nationwide protests in 2020 and subsequent years, his team has released photographs and videos showing him in strongman poses—such as holding weapons or standing in protective gear—that were suspected or proven to be digitally altered or selectively framed to bolster his image of strength and control.
This practice, intended to portray him as more authoritative, vigorous, or relatable, can undermine public trust and call into question the authenticity of official communications. The impact on his public image is twofold: domestically, supporters might see such images as reinforcing his authority, while opponents and international observers perceive the manipulation as indicative of a regime that resorts to propaganda and deception.
The real condition of Lukashenko is captured in foreign video evidence. His ageing process is evident in his appearance, and the contrast in his appearance in the recent photos compared to his own previous photos is striking. This evidence poses a significant challenge to the press service's efforts to hide Lukashenko's health issues and highlights the regime’s authoritarian nature.
In the published report, Lukashenko and Putin were pictured together, sitting on a bench, which some interpret as an attempt to frighten the West. However, the propagandists' efforts to conceal Lukashenko's health issues are becoming increasingly difficult, given the widespread availability of foreign photographers and videos capturing him during his foreign trips.
In summary, foreign evidence is playing a crucial role in challenging Lukashenko's image and health concealment efforts. As the public becomes more aware of the manipulation of his public image, the regime's credibility is being eroded, and the authoritarian nature of the Belarusian government is being highlighted.
- The contrast between the original and retouched photos of Lukashenko, as seen in foreign evidence, raises concerns about the authenticity of his public image and raises questions about the health-and-wellness of the Belarusian President.
- Evidence of photo manipulation in Lukashenko's images, such as the use of digitally altered photographs and selective framing to boost his image, can undermine public trust and be perceived as a sign of political propaganda and deception, particularly in the realm of general-news.
- As foreign video evidence exposes the aging process of Lukashenko, the contrast in his appearance in recent photos compared to his own previous photos calls attention to the ongoing attempts of war-and-conflicts and politics to manipulate the public image of political leaders, thereby highlighting the need for transparency and truth in communication.
