Energy Minister's complaint against economist Otabek Bakirov dismissed

The Tashkent City Department of Internal Affairs has decided not to pursue criminal charges against economist Otabek Bakirov, who had previously criticized Energy Minister Jurabek Mirzamakhmudov. Bakirov shared this update on his Telegram channel.

Footage from the podcast

According to Bakirov, the DIA’s decision cited an expert conclusion stating that the claims outlined in the minister’s complaint were unfounded. Additionally, the decision noted that more than 1.5 years had passed since the publication of the social media post that prompted the complaint.

The controversy stemmed from a June 5, 2023, post by Bakirov criticizing frequent maintenance works at the Sagbon substation. Minister Mirzamakhmudov lodged a complaint against Bakirov, alleging that the post contained defamatory and insulting statements and requested legal action.

Bakirov revealed that the complaint was filed just six days after both he and Mirzamakhmudov appeared on the "Lolazor" podcast. The economist described the minister’s actions as an attempt to impose censorship on energy-related issues.

"I see the minister's actions as an effort to suppress criticism and create an atmosphere of secrecy, instead of addressing and resolving the increasingly severe issues in the energy sector," Bakirov wrote.