Karimov Struggles to Protect Image in Uzbekistan Following Internet Attacks

President Islam Karimov has mobilized mass media in Uzbekistan for a propaganda battle following the publication of Russian-language articles that seriously damaged the Uzbek leader's image. The articles, which first appeared on the internet, contained various allegations connecting Karimov to illicit activities, including drug trafficking. They also publicized unflattering details about his past.

The attacks on Karimov's character – written under the name of Usman Khaknazarov and posted first on the Russian-language web site Centrasia.ru – began appearing in early January. The articles were subsequently re-posted by several other Russian-language web sites. The articles are full of details about the inner workings of the presidential administration. They also exhort Uzbeks to work to oust Karimov's government.

"We shouldn't demand the resolution of our immediate problems, we should demand the resignation of this criminal group of thieves and bandits [Karimov's administration] – those who are chiefly responsible for our current problems," one of the articles, published January 12, said.

Another article urged Uzbeks to spread the anti-Karimov message. "In our hands