Tajikistan: Opposition Hits Back After Attack

Following a violent attack on its spokesman, the Islamic Renaissance Party of Tajikistan, the country’s only real opposition party, has lashed out at the government of Imomali Rakhmon. Without specifying who is to blame, the IRPT has called Monday’s “assassination attempt” on Hikmatulloh Saifullohzoda a provocation, a sign of increasing authoritarianism, and a “threat to national security.”

The unusually combative IRPT statement accuses authorities of self-destructive behavior: “The authorities have chosen the way of confrontation instead of the way of dialogue, cooperation and mutual understanding and this may lead to [an] ailing atmosphere in society.” 

"False rumors have been circulated in society recently and a deviation from principles of peace and accord have evoked serious concerns among experts and society itself,” the statement adds.

A 1997 peace agreement between Rakhmon and the IRPT, which has come under increasing pressure in recent months, ended the country’s civil war. Tens of thousands died between 1992-1997.

Rakhmon’s People’s Democratic Party of Tajikistan said the attack is not connected to Saifullohzoda’s political activities. “It is useless for political opponents of the IRPT to intimidate Saifullohzoda or make an attempt on his life. Besides, he has not stated anything serious recently,” party leader Masoud Sobirov told the Asia-Plus news agency, adding that the attack is likely based on “private” matters.

A crackdown on all things Islamic, under the guise of destroying radicalism emanating from Afghanistan, has alienated believers and threatens to provoke a real extremist surge, moderate Muslims in Dushanbe fear.