The Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan’s death-defying leader is dead – killed a year ago – the group finally announced on August 16 as his successor cited the recent violence in southern Kyrgyzstan as an example of why Muslims should "take the path of jihad." **
The IMU originally denied that Tahir Yuldashev, perhaps Central Asia's most wanted Islamic militant, had been killed by an unmanned American drone in Pakistan last August. (He had also been reported killed in October 2008.) But the organization has now posted undated photos of his corpse and announced a new leader, Usman Adil.
In his first act as emir, Adil – who looks like he hasn’t reached the martyrdom age requirement – according to Reuters has called for holy war in southern Kyrgyzstan.
It looks like a good time to start a jihad, local and western officials in Bishkek are concerned. With the Kyrgyz security services tyrannizing young Uzbek males, and the central government exercising almost no control in southern Kyrgyzstan, the conditions certainly appear right for militants to make a stand. Authorities are doing a good job getting young Uzbeks angry enough to seek revenge.
Yet, despite the chaos, there’s still no evidence Islamic-linked militants are strong enough to take advantage. Where were they during the June ethnic violence between Uzbeks and Kyrgyz?
Well, security officials in Bishkek have tried to blame militants for the June bloodletting, but have failed to provide any proof. They tried to link the violence to the Taliban, in transparent and weak arguments for foreign sympathy. And various officials have warned that militants could come over the thawed passes from eastern Tajikistan in August. (The IMU does know the territory well.)
So far, it’s all just speculation and embroidery. But a jihadist couldn’t ask for a more perfect storm.
**[This blog was updated on August 19 to clarify the new IMU leader's statement on southern Kyrgyzstan.]
David Trilling is Eurasianet’s managing editor.
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