Islam Karimov, Uzbekistan’s first President, was born in Samarkand, Uzbek SSR, Soviet Union, on January 30, 1938, to a Tajik father and an Uzbek mother. His father, Karim Bai, was a labourer, and his mother, Sanobar, was a housewife. Islam had two brothers and three sisters.
Karimov’s ethnicity is a subject of debate. Some sources identify him as an Uzbek, while others identify him as a Tajik. He was fluent in both Uzbek and Tajik and also spoke Russian. Karimov’s political career began in 1966 when he became the secretary of the Communist Party of Uzbekistan Central Committee.
- Karimov rose through the ranks quickly and became the First Secretary of the Communist Party of Uzbekistan in 1989.
- In 1991, he was elected President of Uzbekistan, a position he held until his death in 2016.
- During his time as President, Karimov implemented several economic and political reforms.
- He also cracked down on Islamic extremism and established a secular state.
- Karimov’s achievements include stabilizing Uzbekistan’s economy, improving its infrastructure, and promoting education and healthcare.
He was also known for his authoritarian rule and his suppression of dissent.
- Karimov died of a stroke on September 2, 2016, at the age of 78.
- He was succeeded by Shavkat Mirziyoyev, who has since implemented some reforms, including releasing political prisoners and allowing more freedom of expression.
Karimov remains a controversial figure in Uzbekistan. Some Uzbeks view him as a strong leader who brought stability to the country, while others see him as a dictator who suppressed human rights.
Emblem of Uzbekistan
To enrich your insights into presidential figures worldwide, also explore some prominent first presidents from other countries, such as Uruguay, United States and United Kingdom. Delving into the leadership journeys of these figures can offer valuable perspectives on their historical significance and pivotal roles in shaping global politics.
The official residence and symbol of the Uzbekistan President
10 Iconic Presidents Who Shaped Uzbekistan’s History
Here are 10 of the most popular presidents from Uzbekistan:
- 1. Islam Karimov
- 2. Shavkat Mirziyoyev
- 3. Abdulla Aripov
- 4. Mirtemir Usmanov
- 5. Rustam Azimov
- 6. Elyor Ganiev
- 7. Aziz Abdukhakimov
- 8. Jamshid Kuchkarov
- 9. Gulomjon Ibragimov
- 10. Tanzil Kuddusi
1. Islam Karimov: Known as Uzbekistan’s first president, Islam Karimov served for almost 27 years from 1990 until his death in 2016. His tenure was characterized by centralized control and political repression.
2. Shavkat Mirziyoyev: Shavkat Mirziyoyev became the second president of Uzbekistan in 2016 following the death of Islam Karimov. He has implemented a range of reforms aimed at modernizing the country’s economy and political system.
3. Abdulla Aripov: Abdulla Aripov has served as the prime minister of Uzbekistan since 2016. He has played a key role in implementing economic reforms and attracting foreign investment to the country.
4. Mirtemir Usmanov: Mirtemir Usmanov is an influential politician and businessman in Uzbekistan. He has held various positions in the government and is known for his support of economic liberalization.
5. Rustam Azimov: Rustam Azimov served as the deputy prime minister and finance minister of Uzbekistan. He played a crucial role in attracting foreign investment and implementing economic reforms.
6. Elyor Ganiev: Elyor Ganiev is the current minister of foreign trade of Uzbekistan. He has been instrumental in expanding international trade relations and attracting foreign investment to the country.
7. Aziz Abdukhakimov: Aziz Abdukhakimov is the deputy prime minister for tourism and sports in Uzbekistan. He has been leading efforts to promote tourism and improve the country’s sports infrastructure.
8. Jamshid Kuchkarov: Jamshid Kuchkarov served as the minister of finance of Uzbekistan. He played a key role in implementing fiscal reforms and attracting foreign investment to the country.
9. Gulomjon Ibragimov: Gulomjon Ibragimov is a prominent politician and businessman in Uzbekistan. He has held various positions in the government and is known for his support of economic development.
10. Tanzil Kuddusi: Tanzil Kuddusi is the current minister of investment and foreign trade of Uzbekistan. He is responsible for attracting foreign investment and promoting trade relations with other countries.
