This problem or lack of freedom of speech can be dated back to history of the people.
Belarus once being a member of the Soviet union or old russian empire. The leader have always been given veto powers undermining Freedom of speech and plights of the masses(peasants).
It's save to say Lukashenko is an incarnate of the old tyrants of tsarist regime(the likes of Ivan 3 the terrible, Joseph Stalin and all others) they have always been an enemy of criticism or condemnation. They don't create an avenue to people's opposing thoughts or contributions. Notable writers and freedom fighters were sent on exile for this and many died as a result. Purging and killing of thousands of officials and people out of paranoia was also seen during Stalin's reign during the Soviet era.
It is sad and disheartening to see this happening in this modern day era. A solution needs to be found and found quickly