The approach of the elections was marked by a new wave of arrests. Artists, journalists and supporters of the opposition were also targeted.
The arrests were carried out by the police against lawyers and volunteers who collected signatures for the election. The election will be held on February 16. The results will be announced on February 19. The vote will be open to the public. The winner will be decided by a secret ballot. The loser will be chosen by a jury of seven people. The result will be known on February 20.