The second court hearing for eight prominent politicians and public figures accused of treason and an attempted seizure of power took place on November 18 at a pretrial detention facility in Dushanbe. The hearing was conducted behind closed doors, lasting approximately four hours, as per to ASIA-Plus.
Relatives of the defendants were not allowed to attend, and defense lawyers declined to comment. Authorities have not disclosed details of the proceedings, citing the classified nature of the case. An official from the Supreme Court stated that no information could be shared due to the trial's confidentiality.
Defendants Questioned
During the hearing, four defendants gave statements:
- Hamrokhon Zarifi, former Foreign Minister
- Abdulfayz Atoi, former Foreign Ministry spokesman
- Nouramin Ghanizoda, retired colonel of the State Committee for National Security
- Jamshed Boyev, retired colonel of the State Committee for National Security
The remaining defendants are expected to testify in the next session, scheduled for November 21.
Details of the Case
The group of defendants includes former senior officials and political figures:
- Akbarshoh Iskandarov, former parliament speaker
- Saidjafar Usmonzoda, former Democratic Party leader
- Ahmadshoh Komilzoda, Democratic Party Deputy Chairman
- Shokirjon Hakimov, Social Democratic Party Deputy Chairman
Charges against the defendants include treason, plotting to seize power, fraud, and inciting hatred. According to available information, most defendants have denied the charges.
Arrests and Legal Proceedings
The arrests began in June 2024, starting with Saidjafar Usmonzoda. Tajikistan's Prosecutor General Yusuf Rahmon announced that charges under Article 306, Part 2, related to the "Seizure of Power by Force," had been filed against Usmonzoda and others. Additional individuals were subsequently detained in connection with the case.
The trial commenced on November 14, with hearings held at a pretrial detention facility in Dushanbe. Authorities have classified the case, restricting public and media access.
The next hearing is scheduled for November 21.
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