Mirziyoyev honors victims of political repression ahead of Independence Day

On August 29, ahead of Uzbekistan’s Independence Day, representatives of government bodies, civil society, and the intellectual community gathered at the Martyrs’ Memorial Alley in Tashkent to mark the Day of Remembrance of Victims of Repression, observed annually on August 31. President Shavkat Mirziyoyev attended the ceremony, the presidential press service reported.

Participants recited verses from the Quran in memory of those who lost their lives for the nation’s freedom. A memorial feast was held, and prayers were offered at the symbolic grave located at the site. The president held discussions with scholars and intellectuals on the importance of studying history, promoting patriotism, and instilling respect for independence and peace among young people.

“Every year, on the eve of Independence Day, we pray for our ancestors who gave their lives for the Motherland’s freedom. The courage of our heroic ancestors who fought for the nation will always be a lesson for us,” Mirziyoyev said.

Historical records show that more than 100,000 Uzbeks were repressed during the Stalinist purges, with thousands executed under false accusations of being “enemies of the people” and many more exiled. Families were torn apart, leaving countless women widowed and children orphaned. Nearly a century later, this chapter of history continues to be remembered with profound sorrow.

“We are doing a lot to honor the martyrs of our homeland and preserve their legacy,” the president said. “In the past eight years, more than 1,200 names of our repressed ancestors have been rehabilitated. The Museum of Memory of Victims of Repression has been reconstructed and enriched with thousands of new documents. Regional museums have also been established. This year, we celebrate the 150th anniversary of Jadid movement leader Mahmudkhodja Behbudi, and the State Museum of Jadid Heritage is being created in Bukhara.”

Since last year, the first week of October has been marked as the Week of Remembrance of Victims of Political Repression. This year’s events will be held as the Week of Memory and Education, highlighting the importance of studying the lives of Uzbekistan’s national heroes.

“Our great-grandfathers were progressive in every field. They created the first Uzbek novels, theatrical works, films, and textbooks. If the Turkestan students who studied in Germany in the 1920s had not been repressed, they could have transformed our society. If we tell our history truthfully, young people will not seek out other heroes — our ancestors are already an example,” Mirziyoyev said.

The president stressed that preserving this historical memory is crucial for national unity and security. “Today, the world is becoming increasingly dangerous, and threats to state independence are emerging. This demands vigilance, solidarity, and the steady continuation of reforms,” he said.

The ceremony concluded with prayers for peace, stability, and prosperity in Uzbekistan.