27 Jun 2022 08:59

Draft amendments to Uzbek constitution envisage extending presidential term from 5 to 7 years

TASHKENT. June 27 (Interfax) - A bill on the introduction of amendments to the constitution of Uzbekistan including a provision on the extension of the presidential term in office from five to seven years has been published on the Uzbek parliamentary media outlets on Saturday for a nationwide discussion.

On Friday, the legislative chamber of the Oliy Majlis passed the bill on the first reading and decree to put it to the nationwide discussion.

The amendments and additions cover over 60 articles of the constitution of Uzbekistan. They deal with a favorable business and investment climate in the country, the protection of fair competition, ensuring conditions for the development of entrepreneurship, the prevention of monopolization of economic activities, the right to conduct any legal activity for entrepreneurs and make unlimited profits.

The bill also envisages provisions governing further improvement of the foundations of the state authorities, strengthening the powers of the parliament and envisaging citizens' high involvement in the legislative process.

The published draft amendments to the Uzbek constitution envisage extending the presidential term from five to seven years.

On June 20, Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev proposed holding a nationwide referendum on amendments to the country's constitution.

"I believe if we hold a constitutional reform by means of a referendum based on the opinion and support of our citizens, it will be an expression of the will of our people, will truly be a people's constitution," Mirziyoyev said.

Uzbek Senate First Deputy Speaker Sadyk Safayev said earlier that amendments to the country's constitution will allow incumbent President Shavkat Mirziyoyev to run for reelection.

The Uzbek constitution was adopted on December 8, 1992.

Mirziyoyev called for amending the constitution in December 2021. He referred to public opinion and said it was necessary to augment the constitution with provisions to develop family institution, continue to strengthen inter-ethnic accord, ban child labor, protect the rights of disabled and elderly persons, and deal with ecological problems.