Uzbekistan Holds Parliamentary Elections Amid Concerns

Uzbekistan's parliamentary elections commenced on October 27, aiming to reinforce President Shavkat Mirziyoyev's authority amid the absence of opposition parties. The elections follow significant constitutional reforms introducing a mixed electoral system, where 75 of the 150 deputies are elected via party lists and the remainder through individual nominations. Despite these changes, critics argue that the elections are unlikely to be free and fair, as competing parties are often labeled as 'pocket parties' lacking genuine independence. Mirziyoyev, who has been in power since 2016, has gained popularity through liberal reforms but maintains tight control over the political landscape. The international community remains skeptical about the legitimacy of these elections, noting that real political freedom has not emerged since the reforms began. As citizens exercise their constitutional right to vote, the results are expected to consolidate the current regime's power.