DUSHANBE, June 20, Asia-Plus — A group of former field commanders from Gorno Badakhshan, including Imomnazar Imomnazar, Tolib Ayombekov , Yodgor Mamadaslamov and Mamadboqir Mamadboqirov, on June 19 sent a letter to President Emomali Rahmon, asking for his personal support for peaceful solution of so-called political crisis in Gorno Badakhshan.
Speaking in an interview with Asia-Plus, Imomnazar Imomanazr today said that they had asked the president as guarantor of peace and stability to prevent the possible bloodshed in the region.
“As it became known from reliable sources, 11 armored personnel carriers and eight heavy trucks KamAz, totaling 1,200 servicemen, were transferred to GBAO’s Darvoz district yesterday evening,” said Imomnazar, “According to information received, a total strength of military personnel, both those deployed in the region and those additionally transferred, may reach 2,000 personnel in the near future.”
Imomnazar noted that they are against any violence; however, any military operation by the government forces may cause bloodshed.
According to him, speculations that widespread drug trafficking is observed in Gorno Badakhshan and additional troops were allegedly transferred to the region to fight drug traffickers are unfounded. “If narcotics are being smuggled via Gorno Badakhshan in kilograms, via other regions of the country, narcotics are being smuggled in tons,” Imomnazar said. Therefore he considers that it is political pursuit rather then fight against crime. “We are openly criticizing our local authorities for failing to fulfill their duties, you know,” Imomnazar said.
“We are ready for any negotiations and make compromise for keeping stability in the region and the country as a whole,” he stressed.
