The Ombudsman for Human Rights in Tajikistan, Umed Bobozoda, visited several districts in Khatlon province, where he met with local residents to address their complaints. The visit was part of the Ombudsman’s ongoing efforts to protect citizens' rights. Bobozoda reportedly visited the districts of Shamshiddin-Shokhin, Muminobod, Vose, and Hamadoni.
According to the Ombudsman’s press service, 40 citizens filed complaints on various issues, with a majority focusing on education rights, access to clean water, family disputes, land issues, and the situation on the banks of the Panj River, which runs along the border with Afghanistan.
Residents raised concerns about spousal rights in marriage, property division, domestic violence, child support issues, and visitation rights.
Some complaints also related to judicial processes and dissatisfaction with court decisions, as well as issues surrounding cotton prices and the allocation of land for waste disposal sites in the region.
Another key issue raised was the energy situation. Residents complained about the failure to adhere to established electricity rationing, resulting in frequent power outages. They reported receiving electricity for only 4 to 7 hours per day, with the schedule often not being followed. In recent weeks, there has been an increase in energy restrictions across the country, further fueling public discontent.
The situation along the Panj River, a strategically important area on the border with Afghanistan, was also a major concern for residents, who expressed anxiety over security and environmental issues in the region.
In response to the complaints, Umed Bobozoda reportedly provided consultations and legal recommendations to the citizens. The press service noted that in some cases, with the involvement of local authorities, positive solutions to the issues raised were found.
However, the press release did not specify what exact solutions were reached or how the issues raised by the citizens were resolved.
It should be noted that visits by the Ombudsman and his representatives to regional areas or prisons are rarely covered by the media, and the outcomes of such consultations are typically unclear to the public.
