The head of Vitebsk region suddenly changed. The reason given was the illness of 50-year-old Aliaksandr Rahozhnik
Aliaksandr Lukashenka signed a decree on October 20 to dismiss Aliaksandr Rahozhnik from the post of chairman of the Vitebsk Regional Executive Committee. The reason for the personnel decision is cited as Rahozhnik's illness.
Siarhei Liaukovich
50-year-old Aliaksandr Rahozhnik headed the Vitebsk region at the beginning of this year. Prior to that, he worked as the Ambassador of Belarus to Russia, Minister of Industry, and General Director of the Minsk Motor Plant.
As recently as Saturday, October 17, Rahozhnik personally participated in the regional "Dazhynki" festival in Myory and, at least outwardly, did not appear ill.
Aliaksandr Rahozhnik on October 17, 2026, at "Dazhynki" in Myory. Photo: "Vitebskie Vesti"
On October 16, he received Aliaksandr Lukashenka, who flew to the region for an inspection.
Aliaksandr Rahozhnik on October 16, 2026, before Aliaksandr Lukashenka. Screenshot from Pula Pervogo video
By another decree, Siarhei Liaukovich was appointed acting chairman of the Vitebsk Regional Executive Committee. Prior to this, he held the position of first deputy chairman of the Regional Executive Committee.
On October 20, Lukashenka's Head of Administration, Dzmitry Krutoi, on behalf of Aliaksandr Lukashenka, met with the leadership of the Regional Executive Committee, introduced the new acting head of the region, and outlined current tasks for the region's development.