Shavkat Mirziyoyev

Mirziyoyev was appointed Prime Minister of Uzbekistan under President Islam Karimov. He served for 13 years, overseeing economic management. His tenure was marked by limited reforms and continued authoritarian rule. He remained loyal to Karimov and managed day-to-day governance.

Following the death of Islam Karimov, Mirziyoyev was appointed interim president and then won a snap election with 88.6% of the vote. His succession marked the first transfer of power in Uzbekistan since independence. The election was criticized as not free and fair.

Mirziyoyev initiated a series of reforms aimed at liberalizing Uzbekistan's economy, improving foreign relations, and easing some social restrictions. He devalued the currency, allowed greater press freedom, and released some political prisoners. The reforms were praised internationally.

Mirziyoyev pursued a foreign policy of rapprochement with Uzbekistan's neighbors, including Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Kazakhstan. He resolved long-standing border disputes and opened trade routes. This marked a shift from Karimov's isolationist policies and reduced regional tensions.

Mirziyoyev was re-elected president with 80.1% of the vote in an election that international observers noted lacked genuine competition. His main opponent was a little-known candidate. The election was seen as a continuation of his reform agenda but with limited political pluralism.

Mirziyoyev held a constitutional referendum that, among other changes, reset his presidential term count, allowing him to potentially rule until 2040. The referendum passed with 90% approval. Critics argued it was a move to entrench his power, undermining earlier reformist image.