People’s Democratic Party of Uzbekistan announces shift to parliamentary opposition
Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — The People’s Democratic Party of Uzbekistan (PDPU) has officially announced its transition into the parliamentary opposition within the Oliy Majlis. The announcement was made in a statement released by the party’s press service.
Positioning itself as a left-wing political force, the PDPU emphasized that its strategic goal is the construction of a democratic social state grounded in the principles of social justice, equality, and solidarity.
The decision stems from the party’s commitment to effectively defending the interests of its electorate, amplifying their voice in parliament and government, and promoting the preservation and advancement of strong social policies. In this context, the party declared its refusal to join the parliamentary majority formed by right-wing parties united under the “Progressive Bloc,” and expressed its disagreement with the government program supported by that coalition.
Among the key reasons for rejecting participation in the ruling coalition, the PDPU cited: the disregard for the need to maintain state involvement in the economy and the lack of legal safeguards against the privatization of strategic enterprises; plans to transition to a market-based pension system with competitive elements; the absence of a clear, long-term policy for supporting socially vulnerable populations in covering utility costs; unresolved issues surrounding the protection of investors in shared construction projects; the failure to introduce a progressive taxation system, including a luxury tax; and weak government oversight in the pharmaceutical sector, particularly in the regulation of drug pricing and advertising.
By assuming the role of an opposition faction, the PDPU will gain additional parliamentary powers, including the right to critically evaluate draft laws, propose alternative initiatives, and enhance oversight over the executive branch.