From the birth of Munisa to the departure of Umarov: What are Uzbeks interested in?

November was a month marked by significant political events in Uzbekistan. Following the parliamentary elections held on October 27, the government that had initially resigned returned to its posts shortly after. Meanwhile, notable changes took place within the leadership of key institutions: the chairman of the State Security Service and the Minister of Defense were replaced, and several employees of the State Security Service and the Ministry of Internal Affairs were dismissed.

But how aware are Uzbek citizens of such critical political developments in the country? What kind of news captures their attention? These questions were posed to the public by QALAMPIR.UZ.

The majority of survey respondents mentioned show business news as the latest events in Uzbekistan. Here are some of their answers:

“I read the latest news about Munisa Rizayeva. She had a baby.”

“I saw on social networks that many bloggers got married.”

“I only heard that Munisa Rizayeva had children abroad,” some respondents noted.

While entertainment news dominated their responses, a portion of the population demonstrated awareness of recent political changes, albeit with a limited understanding of the details:

“The parliament changed recently, but it seems that all the ministers of Uzbekistan remained in their positions,” said a respondent who regularly follows political events online.

“Our president recently held a meeting with deputies, and then he visited the Yangihayot district,” another shared.

Several individuals expressed interest in changes within the defense sector:

“The Minister of Defense became the head of the State Security Service.”

“I noticed the changes in the parliament. Abdulla Aripov was re-elected.”

“I read that the President of Uzbekistan became the chairman of the Olympic Games. I also think there were changes in the parliament and among the ministers,” one respondent added.

However, some citizens admitted to being indifferent to political news.

“To be honest, I don’t get involved in politics much. But I support the government. It’s better to let professionals handle these matters. As the saying goes, ‘A lot of talk is a burden to a donkey,’” commented an elderly man.

Gulirano Jo‘raqulova