Uzbekistan's Ruling Party Wins Parliamentary Elections

In Uzbekistan's parliamentary elections held on October 27, 2024, parties supporting President Shavkat Mirziyoyev secured the majority of seats in the Legislative Chamber, reflecting a political landscape largely loyal to the president. The ruling Liberal Democratic Party of Uzbekistan (O’zLiDeP) increased its representation from 53 to 64 seats, while other parties saw mixed results amid an electoral environment criticized for lacking genuine competition. Despite the introduction of a mixed electoral system designed to enhance political plurality, observers noted that no opposition parties were allowed to compete, and the elections were heavily monitored by over 850 international observers. President Mirziyoyev, who has maintained a tight grip on power since 2016, has enacted economic reforms but retains centralized authority, casting doubt on the democratic nature of the elections. The new electoral rules only nominally shifted the political landscape, as all candidates were affiliated with established parties that do not challenge the president. Consequently, the elections underscored the ongoing consolidation of power within Mirziyoyev's administration, raising concerns about the future of political dissent in Uzbekistan.