Five presidents were ousted in some countries, but nothing changed – Nazarbekov

In some countries, some success has been had in undermining major societal reforms by slandering a leader.  Behind this, large groups are at work.  That is why in some countries five presidents were expelled, but in society, nothing has changed.  This was stated by the Minister of Culture of Uzbekistan Ozodbek Nazarbekov at a meeting with journalists yesterday 29 June.

Nazarbekov noted that recent discussions on social networks and speeches related to the promotion of the new constitution have caused disputes.  He said that the activity of some bloggers frightens him.

“What scares me most recently in terms of forming consciousness in this field (journalism - ed.), frankly speaking, is that today, if I defend my leader (President Shavkat Mirziyoyev - ed.), the tendency is to consider this a fault.  Sorry, but most bloggers do it.  This is relayed to the whole society as guilt.  The concept “Talk about state reform is a betrayal of the Motherland, a betrayal of the nation” is advancing and strengthening.  This work is purposeful.  Programs and large teams work for this, and resources are allocated and formed.  It is not easy to stay “healthy” during these processes.  It seems that the easiest way to be famous is to discredit one great leader or undermine the great reform of society.  People who take advantage of this scare me.

Sorry, but in some countries, this consciousness has already formed.  Five presidents have been expelled so far, but nothing changed.  Such immunity was formed.

Simply speaking, even if you bring Umar the righteous, people will not agree.  In that society the concept of dissent and freedom is promoted: whoever comes they will not agree”, - said Ozodbek Nazarbekov.

The Minister did not specify the country in question.  However, it is clear that Nazarbekov most likely had in mind the situation in Kyrgyzstan, a close neighbor of Uzbekistan.  Since its independence, the country has embarked on the path of building a democratic state and civil society.  Meanwhile, five presidents of Kyrgyzstan, Askar Akayev, Kurmanbek Bakiyev, Rosa Otunbayeva, Almazbek Atambayev, and Sooronbay Jeenbekov, resigned after years of civil unrest.