By president’s decree issue don January 23 Emomali Sobirzoda, who had previously served as the First Deputy Minister of Defense also the Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Tajikistan, was appointed as the Minister of Defense. He replaced Sherali Mirzo, who had served as the Minister of Defense for 12 years.
By president’s decree issued yesterday Sherali Mirzo was appointed to head the Main Directorate for the Protection of State Secrets
Who is Emomali Sobirzoda?
The 52-year-old Emomali Sobirzoda was born in Vahdat Township. He is a graduate of the Combined Arms Academy of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation.
In 2018, President Emomali Rahmon awarded Sobirzoda the military rank of Major-General. He has been honored with the “Courage” medal and the Order of Spitamen (2nd degree).
Sobirzoda began his military career in 1992 as a deputy commander of platoon and participated in military operations during the Tajik civil war.
Over the years, he has held various positions as a chief of staff and commander.
In February 2010, Sobirzoda was appointed Commander of the Tajikistan Ground Forces, a role he held for five years.
In November 2015, he became the First Deputy Minister of Defense also Chief of the General Staff, where he had served for 10 years.
What challenges must the new minister address?
As the new Minister of Defense, Emomali Sobirzoda will face a number of longstanding issues, including: illegal army conscription; hazing and abuse in the military; and lack of open communication with the public
Sobirzoda, while serving as the First Deputy Minister of Defense, emphasized in 2021 during debates with members of parliament that hazing in the military is not born within the army but begins within families. He highlighted the importance of moral education for recruits.
Addressing hazing and other systemic shortcomings in the armed forces will be among the key priorities for the new minister.
Despite the relatively active work of the Ministry of Defense’s press service, the ministry often avoids commenting on sensitive issues. Improving transparency and openness remains a critical task that must be addressed in the near future.
