Uzbek leader seeks to extend grip on power

Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev will seek re-election in July, alongside three token candidates, according to the list released on June 5 by the country’s electoral commission

Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev will seek re-election in July, alongside three token candidates, according to the list released on June 5 by the country's electoral commission.

Campaigning in the Central Asian country — which has an authoritarian political system in spite of substantial reforms — will begin on June 7, state news agency Uza quoted the commission as saying.

The election will take place on July 9.

It was called early by Mr. Mirziyoyev, 65, after a referendum allowing him to remain in power for two more terms.

The tightly controlled plebiscite in April, which officially garnered 90% support, ushered in constitutional changes that allow the president to extend his hold on power until 2037.

The reforms also lengthened the Presidential terms from five to seven years.

Only five parties are officially registered in Uzbekistan.