TASHKENT/JAN. 16 2023 (The Bulletin) — Uzbek police detained the mayor of Tashkent, Jahongir Ortiqhojayev, as he tried to fly to Turkey, blaming him for a lack of heating which has left millions of people freezing through winter.
Mr Ortiqhojayev is one of Uzbekistan’s richest and most powerful men. Companies linked to his friends and associates have grown rich from contracts linked to a construction boom in the city. He also owns the Artel brand which manufactures TVs and fridges.
Residents in Tashkent are increasingly vocal at what they see as the failing of Pres. Shavkat Mirziyoyev and his government to prepare for winter. A lack of gas has meant that people cannot heat their houses or cook in their kitchens. Factories have had to close because of a lack of electricity.
ENDS
— This story was published in issue 532 of the Central Asia & South Caucasus Bulletin, on Jan. 16 2023
— Copyright the Central Asia & South Caucasus Bulletin 2023