Uzbek Leader Seeks Unlimited Power Through Snap Election
- Uzbekistan is holding a snap presidential election following constitutional changes allowing the incumbent to stay in office until 2037.
- President Shavkat Mirziyoyev is expected to easily win re-election against three token opponents.
- Under Mirziyoyev, Uzbekistan has undertaken some political and economic reforms but remains an authoritarian state.
- The snap election comes after protests in Karakalpakstan and aims to consolidate Mirziyoyev's power.
- While Mirziyoyev has eased some restrictions, Uzbekistan still struggles with corruption and human rights abuses.