On December 22, elections were held to the Legislative Chamber of Oliy Majlis and regional, district and city Councils of people’s deputies.

Kun.uz correspondent contacted the leaders of political parties and asked them a question about how the elections were held under the slogan “New Uzbekistan – new elections” and their participation in the election process.

Leader of the “Milliy tiklanish” Democratic Party of Uzbekistan Alisher Kadirov:

“In my opinion, these were the elections, which had never happened in the history of Uzbekistan. In terms of quality, general organizational preparation for the process and attitude of the media. I think this is a big step for Uzbekistan.

These elections have created a space where there is open, transparent competition, parties could openly criticize each other and held a truly competitive debate with a real electorate. In fact, it is an atmosphere that creates development.

Of course, there are still many elections ahead, but these elections will leave their mark on history as the elections that formed a constructive dialogue between people and the government.

I think that the figures provided by the CEC show that the elections were transparent.”

Leader of the “Adolat” Social Democratic Party Nariman Umarov:

“I must note that this year the elections were held in an open and transparent atmosphere. In addition, these elections were in the spotlight. Citizens expressed their views on elections and parties. This means that our people have a growing sense of involvement in these processes.

Identified various violations of the law, which upset many, are also a consequence of openness and transparency. Unfortunately, this was due to the insufficient training of PEC members and, in some cases, the inaction of party observers.

The result of this openness, I believe, is the participation of 71% of voters in the elections. That is, thanks to the active participation of observers, the mass media and bloggers, in many places family voting and the provision of unrealistic information was prevented.”

Leader of the Ecological Party of Uzbekistan Boriy Alikhanov:

“These elections have become a big school for us.

In any case, as a young party, we were able to maximize our potential, and we did everything possible.

So far, we have not had representatives in districts or cities. Now we have representatives and deputies at places.

From this day we enter a new way of life, and this is a test both for our promises to people and for our conscience.

Of course, there were cases of breaking the law. We analyze these cases”.

Leader of the People’s Democratic Party Ulugbek Inoyatov:

“The election program of the People’s Democratic Party began in 2017. A feature of the elections this year was the great opportunity for political parties to promote their ideas and initiatives among the public. Actions and discussions in the media reflected the inter-party ideological fight. This is important for taking the principle of multi-party system to a new level.

Another important aspect of the elections this year is that there is an increase in the socio-political activity of our people and an increase in legal awareness.

During meetings with candidates, many questions were asked about the future of the country and the welfare of the people. In the election process, our party has become closer to the people.

Summing up, we can say that democratic reforms in Uzbekistan are on the path to natural development and prosperity. This process has laid a solid foundation for the emergence of a new generation of politicians”.

Leader of the Liberal Democratic Party of Uzbekistan Aktam Khayitov:

“I think, the elections were based on the principle of openness, constructiveness and equal opportunities for all parties.

These elections were also held under the new financing system and in accordance with the Electoral Code.

Our headquarters is working on the facts of violations, and these cases are studied from the point of view of the law.”