Heroes old and new; Pantheon now includes Tamerlane, Babur and communist leaders

Article Abstract:

The need to build a new future has prompted Central Asian Muslims such as the Uzbeks, Tajiks, Kazakhs and the Kirgyz to revive ancient Muslim heroes whose memory had been suppressed by Russian communists. The cultural revival of heroes such as Babur and Tamerlane is being welcomed by the Muslim community, descendants of the conquering Mongols, Turks and Persians who were forced to venerate communist heroes, scientists and prominent personalities. Old communists such as Sharaf Rashidov, Faizullah Khojaev, Akmal Ikramov and Sultan Galiev who defied Stalin are also being revived.

Social aspects, Islam, Religious aspects, Communism, Religion and state, Asia, Central, Islam and state, Communism and Islam

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The fixers: old elites rig elections in ex-Soviet states

Article Abstract:

The former Soviet states in Central Asia are in political turmoil as the old apparatchik elites still cling to power and fight strenuously against the rise of democracy. Events in Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan all show a similar and depressing pattern of autocracy or oligarchy supported by the sole regional power, Russia. Kyrgyzstan has shown signs of interest in democracy, but strife is increasing there as well.

Political aspects, Political corruption, Former Soviet Union

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Similar abstracts:

• Abstracts: With God on their side: militant Wahabbi Muslims display their strength. Caught in a cleft: economic, religious pressures threaten Uzbekistan

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