Central Asia

Tajik Opposition Says Poll Rigged

As expected, the People’s Democratic Party of Tajikistan won a clear majority in the February 28 parliamentary election, but its opponents are convinced the count was rigged.

Are Tajik Courts Ready for New Powers?

Khalil Qayumzoda reports on the implications of a change in the law that will reduce the powers of prosecutors.

Tajikistan: More Parties Don't Make Pluralism

Five political parties instead of three now hold seats in parliament, but only one of them really counts.

Bishkek Disabled Encouraged to Take Buses

Aidai Tokonova reports on a campaign to make it easier for disabled people to use public transport, largely by showing other passengers how they can help.

Internet Controls Debated in Kyrgyzstan

Some web users now favour the idea of self-regulation as a better option than government intervention, Nuraim Ryskulova reports.

More Wrangling Over Dushanbe Evictions

Residents of an area in the capital where homes were knocked down by the state say they are receiving little or no compensation, Mehrangiz Tursunzoda reports.

Uzbekistan's Hidden Trials

Secrecy of proceedings raises serious questions about due process.

Turkmen Prosecutors Retain Strong Powers

Tajik Electoral Body Under Fire as Polls Loom

Election officials reject claims of inactivity levelled by OSCE observers.

Kyrgyz Journalism Under Pressure on All Fronts

Tendency towards playing safe by avoiding controversial subject-matter.