The People’s Democratic Party of Uzbekistan has officially declared it will now function as an opposition party, distancing itself from the newly formed Progressive Bloc in Parliament.
The bloc, created by the Uzbekistan Liberal Democratic Party and the Democratic Party Milliy Tiklanish, currently holds a parliamentary majority. However, the PDPU announced it would not support the bloc’s political agenda.
The People’s Democratic Party cited several key disagreements with the current course supported by the majority:
- Limited state involvement in the economy and plans for the privatisation of major state-owned enterprises.
- A market-based approach to the pension system, reducing government responsibility.
- Lack of a clear support program for low-income families struggling with utility payments (gas, electricity, etc.)
- No protections for citizens investing in residential housing construction.
- The absence of progressive taxation means wealthier citizens do not pay higher rates, and no luxury tax exists.
- No regulation of medicine prices or a ban on pharmaceutical advertising
The People’s Democratic Party stated that its opposition status gives the party greater powers, including the ability to critically evaluate legislation, propose alternatives and increase oversight of government activities.
Kursiv Uzbekistan also reports that the Progressive Bloc now includes 93 deputies, giving it a clear parliamentary majority.
