Image: TCA, Aleksandr Potolitsyn

Men in Black Blamed for Series of Murders in Northern Tajikistan

By Bruce Pannier

People in the Konibodom area of northern Tajikistan are locking themselves in their homes when darkness falls. Some are arming themselves. Others have left altogether out of fear.

There appears to be a serial killer or killers on the loose. At least 13 people have been murdered in their homes in or near Konibodom since late March, and local police seem baffled as to who is doing this or why.

It started with the killing of five members of the Sharipov family in late March.

Initially investigators believed the 65-year-old head of the house had killed his wife, daughter-in-law, and two grandchildren, then hanged himself, but they later determined someone broke into the home and the killer hanged the man to make it look like a domestic dispute and suicide.

On the night of April 16-17, someone broke into a home in the Gafurjon Ortikov neighborhood of Konibodom and killed the husband and wife who lived there. Police said the bodies of the victims, whom police did not identify, bore the signs of a violent death.

The most recent killings happened on the night of May 28-29 in the village of Sanjidzor, outside Konibodom.

Mahbuba Ahmedova and her two children were killed in their home and that same night, at a different house, the deputy director of a local school, Zulho Ibragimova, her brother and brother’s wife were killed. Local law enforcement said preliminary evidence showed all six people were strangled.

Locals speak about men in black who break into people’s homes at night and kill them.

A video was posted, purportedly from a surveillance camera in Konibodom, that shows a person with black clothing and a black hood or mask trying to break into a home.

Konibodom resident Mahsuda Kodirova said she and her daughter were sitting in the courtyard of their home a little after 10 in the evening on June 11, when a man in black clothing with a black mask suddenly appeared and approached them.

Kadirova said she and her daughter screamed and ran out into the street.

When the police arrived, they told Kadirova they had received many similar calls from terrified residents during the previous 48 hours.

Understandably, there is panic in Konibodom. Many of the men, especially the young men of Konibodom, are currently migrant laborers in Russia who are supporting their elderly parents, wives, and children back home.

The bodies of Mahbuba Ahmendova and her two children were found by neighbors after Ahmedova’s husband had been calling her from Russia and finally called a neighbor to go and check on his family.

Konibodom is near the border with Kyrgyzstan and the population of the city is mixed, mostly Tajiks, but many Kyrgyz as well.

Most of the victims have been ethnic Tajiks, but Ibragimova, her brother, and her brother’s wife were Kyrgyz.

The seeming randomness of the victims puts everyone on edge, at least everyone still there.

The Tajik news outlet Asia-Plus sent its reporters to Sanjidzor after the killings in late May. Those reporters said many homes were locked up. Their owners left to stay with friends or relatives in some other region of Tajikistan until the killers in Konibodom are caught.

Abdusalom Abdurahmonov, 71, remains in the Konibodom area. He said something of a neighborhood patrol has been organized in his community. He said every night, two to four men go out at night and walk around neighborhoods where the men have left to work in Russia, leaving women and children behind.

Ninety-year-old Ashurali Sobirov said his family sleeps with knives, axes, and pitchforks next to their beds. “We practically do not sleep at night,” Sobirov said; “we can’t go outside when we want.”

Police are intensifying their efforts to locate and apprehend the perpetrator or perpetrators. A special temporary headquarters has been established at the Sanjidzor school where one of the victims of the May 28-29 attacks, Zulho Ibragimova, was deputy director.

The teachers and children from that school have temporarily been sent to a different school.

Some 55,000 people live in Konibodom and there are several thousand more people living in surrounding villages.

Asia-Plus reported people are afraid of their own shadow, some are too afraid to go to the bazaar for food during the day.

There is no precedent for these serial murders, not only Konibodom, but across Central Asia. Until these men in black are caught, the residents of Konibodom area will watch the sun set every evening with a feeling of dread.

Stephen M. Bland

Stephen M. Bland

 Stephen M. Bland is a journalist, author, editor, commentator and researcher specialising in Central Asia and the Caucasus. Prior to joining The Times of Central Asia, he has worked for NGOs, think tanks, as the Central Asia expert on a forthcoming documentary series, for the BBC, The Diplomat, EurasiaNet, and numerous other publications.
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Published in 2016, his book on Central Asia was the winner of the Golden Laureate of Eurasian Literature. He is currently putting the finishing touches to a book about the Caucasus.
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www.stephenmbland.com

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Eurasian Connectivity Comes One Step Closer at the 2024 CAMCA Forum in Bishkek

The wider Eurasia region took another step towards cooperation and connectivity last week, as the 10th annual CAMCA Regional Forum was held in Bishkek.

CAMCA – standing for Central Asia, Mongolia, the Caucasus and Afghanistan – is an initiative to accelerate dialogue between governments, private enterprises and media figures from these ten nations. Organized by the Washington, D.C.-based Central Asia-Caucasus Institute and the Rumsfeld Foundation, this year’s Forum – the first such event to take place in Kyrgyzstan – featured over 300 delegates across its two days, and presented insights from over 70 speakers. Attendees came from 25 countries in total.

Professor Frederick Starr, the Central Asia-Caucasus Institute’s chairman, used his opening address to call on the countries of the region to start preparing for a future within a cohesive international bloc. Dr Starr reasoned that Russia and China, imperial powers that have traditionally had a controlling presence in Central Asia, may see their global influence wane in the coming decade. This would give the countries of Central Asia, and their neighbors, more space to create projects that serve their economies directly. A leading CAMCA regional project is the ‘Middle Corridor’ trade route, which bypasses Russia to transport goods more efficiently between Europe and China. Discussions are also taking place concerning the creation of single business and tourist visas for the whole Central Asia region. The importance of collaboration between countries in the Caucasus and Central Asia to mitigate the impact of climate change has never been so great.

Addresses by senior members of the Kyrgyz government highlighted the progress that Kyrgyzstan has made since the administration of president Sadyr Japarov began its work in 2021. The country’s deputy prime minister Edil Baisalov reported that Kyrgyzstan is on track to double its GDP to $30 billion by 2030, while the minister for digital development, Nuria Kutnaeva, spoke about the rapid digitalization of the country’s government services. 

In a noticeably warm and collaborative atmosphere, the event nonetheless highlighted the barriers that prevent the ten countries from forming a tangible ‘CAMCA’ space in the present. A key goal is the harmonization of their legislation and policy directions; however, no delegates from Tajikistan could travel to Bishkek for the Forum, as otherwise solid relations between Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan are still strained by a dispute over their common border. Likewise, Armenian voices were also absent this time, in light of several of the sessions featuring Azerbaijani speakers and talking points. The event featured only one guest from Turkmenistan. 

Even in these conflicts, however, Central Asian diplomacy is at work. The conflict on the Kyrgyz-Tajik border, mainly in Tajikistan’s Vorukh district, is being resolved through negotiations between the two countries’ governments, which would have been unthinkable even five years ago. Meanwhile, Kazakhstan is acting as a mediator between Baku and Yerevan in the aftermath of the war in Nagorno-Karabakh.

Other topics on the agenda included security priorities for Central Asia, digital innovation in business, cooperation with Afghanistan, transitions in global energy markets, and infrastructure projects in the Caspian region.

The Forum concluded with a session on new media and regional voices in the CAMCA region, with input from journalists from The Diplomat, the Georgian agency OC Media, and The Times of Central Asia. While intended to showcase positive new trends in Central Asian media, what followed was more an open criticism of some Eurasian governments’ hostility towards independent reporting. As restrictive, Russian-inspired “foreign agent” laws come into force in some of the region’s countries, Kyrgyz and Georgian journalists on the panel spoke about the realities of government pressure on media outlets, and the increasing need for self-censorship to avoid closure. 

The CAMCA Regional Forum is a unique platform for Eurasia’s issues to be addressed. It will be interesting to see what progress will be made before next year’s gathering in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia.

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Jonathan Campion has worked in the Eurasia region since 2007. After leaving Exeter University with a degree in Russian Language, he worked as a writer, editor, analyst and translator for international law firms, market research firms and business forums serving the CIS region's major industries, from banking and finance, to metals and pharmaceuticals, and wine and spirits. With a passion for Central Asia, he has covered the region in esteemed publications such as the Lonely Planet, Open Central Asia magazine, and National Geographic Traveler.
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He has translated books and poems from the region into English, and will be publishing his first book, about a sports team that saved lives at the start of Russia-Ukraine war, in April of 2024.

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Petition against ‘LGBT Propaganda’ in Kazakhstan: Opinions and Comments

A recent petition against so-called “LGBT propaganda”, which gathered more than 50 thousand signatures, has resonated throughout Kazakhstan. According to legislation, the Ministry of Culture and Information is now obliged to consider this petition.

The petition ‘We are Against Open and Concealed LGBT Propaganda’ authored by Kazakhstan’s Parents’ Union, followed the block in January, of a LGBT community website which the Ministry of Culture claimed to contain information “harmful to the health and development of children.”

Reporting on the issue, TCA quoted the reactions of various public figures, including Khalida Azhigulova, a human rights activist and lawyer who pronouncing the petition illegal, claimed it transmitted “hatred and intolerance toward an entire social group.” She also asserted that “a ban on so-called LGBT propaganda would be a gross violation of Kazakhstan’s international human rights obligations.”

Echoing her sentiment, feminist and activist Aigerim Kusayynkgzy, stated, “In terms of human rights, I hope such inhumane laws will not be passed.”

Bagila Baltabaeva, head of the group leading the petition, reiterated its stance that through books, films, TV and social media, “same-sex love is being openly forced on our children,” promoting “unhealthy relationships.” She also warned that “those who work up the courage and speak out against LGBT propaganda are branded as retrogrades and conservatists.”

Public reaction has been mixed and whilst many citizens have openly expressed their views, many have chosen to remain quiet for fear of repercussions and prejudice.

TCA took to the streets to gauge current response. All contributors expressed a wish to remain anonymous.

I was extremely concerned after reading this news. But at the same time, since I am sure that the president sees only democracy and approximation to European values as the way forward for our country’s development, I am not too worried about it.

Kostanai advertiser

 I think this is a bogus petition, accepted under the guise of a “hearing” state run by a  government that only purports to pay attention to the opinion of its citizens. I am sure that the majority voted on a voluntary-coercive basis, as is often the case. Many of those who voted, I believe, are civil servants, at whose expense such a large number – of signatures – was gained. This petition will be accepted because that’s what the government wants. Other petitions which also garner 50 thousand votes, but not in the hands of the government, are for some reason never accepted.

Taraz singer

I have mixed feelings, but above all, am shocked by the level of response. How can it be that so many people are unhappy enough to willingly sign such a petition? Our country is riddled with problems in more urgent need of petitions.

Almaty journalist

In my opinion, there is no such thing as ‘LGBT propaganda’. One cannot become subsumed by the LGBT community through its exposure on TV or the Internet: a person is either born that way or not. Such a law will reduce the public presence of “non-traditional” relationships in society, but not their number, so I am unequivocally against it.

Astana student

 I wonder who started it in the first place? I don’t particularly care. I’ve hardly noticed the vehement propaganda as our society is generally homophobic.

Taraz citizen

In Kazakhstan, people are already very depressed about being unable to be who they want to be. Even in Almaty, where queer culture is most “developed”, there is still discomfort.

 Extreme pressure affects people various ways. Because it is considered taboo, many react by actively displaying their sexual orientation, as a symbol of rebellion. In so doing, they are masking and moving away from the true notion of self-acceptance. And by attracting attention, incite aggression amongst more conservative people which in turns, adds to the negative hype.

 On the other hand, straight people are not often as straight as they appear. Living within such a conservative environment, people suppress the desire to follow their heart and instead, adhere to the accepted “natural” code. As a consequence, they begin hating both themselves and their surroundings. It is something that extends beyond the large number of married men who get acquainted with young boys in secret from their wives because during their youth, it was all too scary.

 The situation, in short, is deplorable and we do not need further shackling to an already sinking ship. If this is normalized, there won’t be any radical outbursts from members of either the LGBT or straight society. Everyone will be free and more open.

Almaty teacher

In neighbouring Russia, a law was recently passed banning “LGBT propaganda” following which, administrative cases were opened against numerous activists.

Times of Central Asia

Times of Central Asia

Laura Hamilton MA, is the former Director of the Collins Gallery at the University of Strathclyde. She first visited Kyrgyzstan in 2011 to research and curate a major exhibition of contemporary textiles and fashion. Since 2012, she has worked as an editor on over thirty translations of Central Asian novels and collections of short stories. In more recent years, her work has focused on editing translations of Kyrgyzstan's great epics -'Ak Moor', Saiykal', Janysh Baiysh', 'Oljobai and Kishimjan', 'Dariyka', 'Semetey' and 'Er Toshtuk' for The Institute of Kyrgyz Language and Literature, and the Kyrgyz-Turkish Manas University.

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World Bank: Uzbekistan Must Tackle Gender Inequality

The World Bank Uzbekistan has published a new “Country Gender Assessment Report: Uzbekistan” on gender assessment in the country. This report (CGA) was produced with financial support from Great Britain.

This report examines gender equality in Uzbekistan in various areas such as education, health, economic activity, protection from gender-based violence, marriage, divorce, and participation in public life.

CGA examines social norms, assessing cultural attitudes and practices that affect women’s rights and understandings in Uzbek society. The report makes recommendations to close the gender gap and promote inclusive prosperity.

CGA notes that since 2017, significant progress has been made in terms of gender equality in Uzbekistan.

Notable achievements include the 2022 Labor Code, which provides for equal pay for women and removes job restrictions. In addition, 2023 amendments to the Criminal Code criminalize domestic violence.

Consequently, the “Women, business and Rights” index released annually by the World Bank recognized Uzbekistan as one of the top five countries in terms of gender equality in 2024.

Women’s access to education and health services has improved significantly. For example, during the period 2017-2022, the number of admissions to higher education institutions increased significantly, the number of men increased by three times to 29%, and the number of women increased by four times – to 27.4%.

Young women face higher unemployment rates than males (15.5% vs 10%), and the share of young women who were not in employment, education, or training (NEET) has reached 42%, compared to 8.8% for males. In addition, the gender pay gap is significant, with women earning 34% less than men, which is more than the global average of 20%.

Women’s low wages and employment rates directly hinder economic growth and exacerbate poverty in Uzbekistan. If women participated in the country’s economy on an equal basis with men, the national income in Uzbekistan would increase by 29%. Simply equalizing men’s and women’s wages would lift more than 700,000 people out of poverty.

However, gender norms, which place women primarily in charge of caregiving and household tasks, hinder progress towards gender equality and inclusive economic growth.

The report states that the authorities must address gender inequality to realize Uzbekistan’s full economic potential. These include entrenched social norms that limit women’s economic participation, disparities in access to higher education in STEM fields, health care limitations, deteriorating family planning options, incomplete protection from gender-based violence, and the disparity of women in leadership roles.

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Askar Alimzhanov graduated from the journalism department of the Kazakh State University named after S. Kirov, then worked as a correspondent for the daily republican newspaper Leninskaya Smen. He then moved to the United States to be a reporter for the daily newspaper "Cape Cod Times" in Hayanis, Massachusetts, (USA) under the journalist exchange program between the Union of Journalists of the USSR and the New England Society of News Editors. Since then, he has helped build transparency and understanding of Central Asia region in various executive level positions at esteemed media organizations including "Akbar"(Alma-Ata) international center for journalism, the Khabar News agency, the Television and Radio Corporation "Kazakhstan" JSC, and MIR- Kazakhstan.

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Bukhara, Uzbekistan; image: TCA

UN Approves Uzbekistan’s Initiative to Develop Global Safe Tourism Code

The initiative to create an intergovernmental commission on the development of the Global Safe Tourism Code within the framework of the participation of the delegation led by the Ambassador of Uzbekistan to Spain, Farrukh Tursunov, in the 121st session of the UN Tourism Executive Council was unanimously approved, as reported by the Dunyo news agency. The initiative was initially announced by the President Mirziyoyev at the 25th session of the UN General Assembly on tourism held in Samarkand in October 2023.

As stated in the report, conflicts and instability observed in different parts of the world today hurt the development of tourism. In this regard, there is a need to develop a unified approach to ensure the safety of tourists, and the development of the proposed code is a step towards creating a safer, more sustainable, and fairer tourism ecosystem.

It is expected that the code will become one of the tools for the sustainable development of tourism and include measures for environmental protection and the preservation of cultural heritage.

In his speech at the session, UN Secretary General of Tourism, Zurab Pololikashvili thanked the government of Uzbekistan for its contribution to the organization’s activities and noted that Uzbekistan is the most active participant of this structure, contributing not only to the development of the global tourism industry, but also to the enhancement of the image of the UN.

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Askar Alimzhanov graduated from the journalism department of the Kazakh State University named after S. Kirov, then worked as a correspondent for the daily republican newspaper Leninskaya Smen. He then moved to the United States to be a reporter for the daily newspaper "Cape Cod Times" in Hayanis, Massachusetts, (USA) under the journalist exchange program between the Union of Journalists of the USSR and the New England Society of News Editors. Since then, he has helped build transparency and understanding of Central Asia region in various executive level positions at esteemed media organizations including "Akbar"(Alma-Ata) international center for journalism, the Khabar News agency, the Television and Radio Corporation "Kazakhstan" JSC, and MIR- Kazakhstan.

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Kazakhstan Developing Digital System of Flood Forecasting and Modeling

An information system for forecasting and modeling floods in Kazakhstan was discussed with representatives at a Cabinet of Ministers meeting, as reported on the official website of the Government of Kazakhstan. The information system includes four modules: data collection, analysis, forecasting, and modeling. It will use both operational and long-term data from Kazakhstan Ғarysh Sapary, Kazgidromet, and the National Center of Geodesy and Spatial Information.

The system will be integrated with the Ministry of Emergency Situations’ database on floods, mud-flows, landslides, avalanche-prone areas, and hydraulic structures. The Ministry of Digital Development, Innovation, and Aerospace Industry suggested utilizing the European program for remote Earth sensing in its operations. Deputy Prime Minister, Kanata Bozumbayev directed the ministry to also consider domestic digital solutions.

Additionally, to develop a comprehensive data set, it is necessary to increase the number of hydrological and meteorological stations, perform bathymetric surveys of water bodies and rivers, and create a “digital relief” map of areas in the country that frequently experience flooding.

In the spring of 2024, Kazakhstan experienced its largest flooding in 80 years. Ten regions of the country declared a state of emergency, and thousands of houses and buildings were flooded. Thousands of people were evacuated from flooded areas and are still in the process of recovering from the damage.

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Times of Central Asia

Askar Alimzhanov graduated from the journalism department of the Kazakh State University named after S. Kirov, then worked as a correspondent for the daily republican newspaper Leninskaya Smen. He then moved to the United States to be a reporter for the daily newspaper "Cape Cod Times" in Hayanis, Massachusetts, (USA) under the journalist exchange program between the Union of Journalists of the USSR and the New England Society of News Editors. Since then, he has helped build transparency and understanding of Central Asia region in various executive level positions at esteemed media organizations including "Akbar"(Alma-Ata) international center for journalism, the Khabar News agency, the Television and Radio Corporation "Kazakhstan" JSC, and MIR- Kazakhstan.

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