Tajikistan’s Election: A Facade of Democracy under President Rahmon

Tajikistan’s upcoming election on March 2nd is expected to lack democratic legitimacy, primarily serving to reinforce President Emomali Rahmon’s hold on power. His party maintains a dominant majority in the current parliament, and the other political parties in the election align with his administration. The electoral process appears designed to further silence political opposition rather than facilitate a democratic transition.

The forthcoming election in Tajikistan is anticipated to lack democratic integrity. Scheduled for March 2nd, the election is primarily expected to reinforce President Emomali Rahmon’s authority and reputation. His party, the People’s Democratic Party of Tajikistan, is expected to secure a dominant majority, effectively ensuring that political opposition is further marginalized.

With three-quarters of the current parliament’s seats already held by his party, the outcome of the election appears predetermined. Notably, the other five political parties participating in the election are aligned with Mr. Rahmon, typically extending support to his administration. Consequently, the concept of a genuine competitive election seems out of reach, as these parties serve more as supporters of the current regime than as independent challengers.

Ultimately, this electoral exercise is likely to serve as a mechanism for entrenching Emomali Rahmon’s power rather than fostering a true democratic process. The wider implications of consolidating power, as reflected by the lack of political diversity, symbolize a continued suppression of dissenting voices in Tajikistan’s political landscape. Thus, the upcoming election only strengthens the status quo, casting doubt on the prospect for democratic reform in the region.

The March 2nd election in Tajikistan is not expected to be a fair democratic process; rather, it will likely solidify President Emomali Rahmon’s dominance. With his party controlling a substantial majority of parliamentary seats and other parties echoing his policies, the election underscores the absence of genuine political competition. This situation highlights the ongoing repression of opposing political forces and the continuing challenges facing democracy in Tajikistan.

Original Source: www.economist.com