Uzbekistan's Leader Set for Overwhelming Win in Presidential Election

Uzbekistan's President Shavkat Mirziyoyev is expected to win a landslide victory in the snap presidential election, following a constitutional referendum that extended his term from five to seven years. Mirziyoyev, who has been in power since 2016, has introduced political and economic reforms that have eased some of the repressive policies of his predecessor. While there is more freedom of speech and some independent media under his rule, Uzbekistan remains strongly authoritarian with no significant opposition. Mirziyoyev has also focused on improving relations with the West and attracting foreign investment, while maintaining close ties with Russia and China.