Central Asia

High-Profile Conviction Seen as Major Setback for Tajik Opposition

The hefty sentence handed down to a leading politician is viewed as a warning from the authorities to an already weak opposition.

20 Nov 05

Rumours that the Americans plan to use an air base in Turkmenistan appear to have little real substance.

20 Nov 05

Opponents say a year-long freeze on demonstrations would go against the constitution and the whole spirit of political change.

20 Nov 05

Secretary of state’s travel itinerary was a political statement in itself – be nice to the Kyrgyz, and snub the Uzbeks.

20 Nov 05

An ongoing wave of sackings looks increasingly like an attempt by the president to scare off anyone who might be thinking about regime change.

20 Nov 05

Deputies angered at a proposal to lift their immunity from prosecution.

20 Nov 05

The killing of a politician trying to end a prison rebellion raises questions about the link between politics and crime.

20 Nov 05

Relatives allege leaders of a prison revolt were beaten and some possibly killed after an uprising in protest at conditions in jail.

20 Nov 05

Reports that border areas are being demined meet with surprise in Dushanbe.

20 Nov 05

Opponents and supporters of the prime minister hold rival demonstrations as politicians warn the state is on the verge of collapse.

20 Nov 05

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