Tashkent, 9 July 2023 (TDI): In an awaited elections, the polls have officially opened in Uzbekistan as the nation embarks on a crucial Presidential Election. With a total of four candidates, Ulugbek Inoyatov, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, Abdushukur Khamzaev, and Robakhon Makhmudova, vying for the coveted position, all eyes are on incumbent President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, who is poised to secure a third term as the head of state.
As the clock struck 8 am (03:00 GMT), polling stations across Uzbekistan unlocked their doors to welcome millions of eligible voters. The electoral process, which ran until 8 pm (15:00 GMT), promised to be a significant milestone in the democratic history of Central Asia’s most populous country.
Ulugbek Inoyatov: Presidential Candidate of the People’s Democratic Party
Ulugbek Ilyasovich Inoyatov, born on August 6, 1962, in Tashkent, emerges as a strong candidate for the presidency of Uzbekistan. Representing the People’s Democratic Party of Uzbekistan, Inoyatov brings a wealth of theoretical and practical experience in state and public administration, domestic and foreign policy, judicial law, and social protection issues. With a solid academic background, including a Doctorate in Pedagogical Sciences, he has authored over 100 scientific papers and made significant contributions to improving the quality of education in the country.
Inoyatov’s leadership potential has been recognized through his roles as Chairperson of the Central Council of the People’s Democratic Party and Deputy Speaker of the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis. Furthermore, he was awarded the prestigious Shukhrat (Glory) Medal in 2006. Married to L.I. Inoyatova, a teacher, Inoyatov has a son, a daughter, and six grandchildren.
Shavkat Mirziyoyev: Presidential Candidate of the Movement of Entrepreneurs and Businessmen – Liberal Democratic Party
Shavkat Miromonovich Mirziyoyev, born on July 24, 1957, in Zomin district of Jizzakh province, is a prominent candidate representing the Movement of Entrepreneurs and Businessmen – Liberal Democratic Party of Uzbekistan. Mirziyoyev’s impressive track record includes serving as the Prime Minister of the Republic of Uzbekistan from 2003 to 2016 and currently holding the position of President.
Under his leadership, the country has experienced remarkable economic growth, with the GDP reaching a historic figure of $80 billion. Mirziyoyev’s reforms have led to increased exports, tripled foreign investment, and significantly improved living standards for the population. He has also focused on educational development, expanding enrollment rates, creating additional school places, and promoting freedom of expression.
Mirziyoyev’s notable contributions have been recognized through prestigious awards such as the “Mekhnat shukhrati” (Glory of Labour) and “Fidokorona hizmatlari uchun” (For Disinterested Services) orders. Married to Z.M. Mirziyoyeva, chairperson of the board of trustees of the Zamin Foundation, Mirziyoyev has two daughters, a son, and six grandchildren.
Abdushukur Khamzaev: Presidential Candidate of the Ecological Party
Abdushukur Khudoykulovich Khamzaev, representing the Ecological Party of Uzbekistan, emerges as a presidential candidate with a strong focus on environmental issues and judicial reforms. Born on November 9, 1958, in Fergana district of Fergana province, Khamzaev has a distinguished legal career. He has actively participated in the reform process, contributing to the administration of justice, ensuring judicial independence, and promoting fair sentencing
Khamzaev’s efforts to protect women’s rights and improve the reconciliation institution have been notable. Serving as the First Deputy Chairperson of the Supreme Court of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Chairperson of the Judicial Panel for Administrative Cases, and previously as the head of the People’s Reception Office of Fergana region, Khamzaev has demonstrated his commitment to the rule of law.
His contributions are reflected in more than 140 scientific and popular articles and guidance manuals for judges. Khamzaev was awarded the Order “Fidokorona hizmatlari uchun” (For Disinterested Services) and holds the title of Judge of the first qualification category. He is married to T. Makhmudov, a retired professional, and has a son, a daughter, and six grandchildren.
Robakhon Makhmudova: Presidential Candidate of Social Democratic Party Adolat
Robakhon Anvarovna Makhmudova, a prominent candidate representing the Social Democratic Party Adolat of Uzbekistan, is known for her advocacy of social justice and human rights. Born on December 10, 1973, in the Uzun district of Surkhandarya province, Makhmudova holds a Doctorate in Agricultural Sciences and has made significant contributions to the field of forestry.
As Chairperson of the Executive Committee of the Central Council of the Ecological Party of Uzbekistan, she has focused on enhancing the scientific potential in forestry and establishing international cooperation in the field. Makhmudova actively participates in the legislative process, playing a key role in the preparation of draft laws related to seed production, forests, and high mountain pastures.
With a strong commitment to the rule of law, she has advocated for women’s rights, reconciliation institution improvements, and the preservation of the environment. Makhmudova is married and has two sons and a daughter, while her spouse serves as a housewife.