Uzbekistan’s Supreme Court has postponed the review of a complaint filed in supervisory proceedings to January 23, 2025, according to Davron Saidov, the attorney representing seven associates of businessman Komil Allamjonov. The court is expected to assess the legality of the administrative arrests of the seven individuals.
Case details
On October 26, 2024, seven individuals, including bodyguards, drivers, and other staff employed by Allamjonov, were charged with minor hooliganism and failure to comply with lawful orders from law enforcement officers. Protocols prepared by a district police officer alleged the group disrupted public order near the “Argin Tabaka” cafe in Kibrai district.
“In reality, my clients were not present at the alleged location of the incident. We have provided evidence, including video recordings and witness statements, to support this,” Saidov stated.
Attorney’s position: Allegations of pressure
Saidov suggested that the administrative case may have been used as a means of applying pressure on Allamjonov’s associates during the investigation of an attempted assassination targeting the businessman on the night of October 25–26.
“My clients were summoned to provide explanations and spent the entire day of October 26 cooperating with the investigative group. However, later that evening, after they had returned home, they were called back to the Kibrai District Police Department and asked to sign certain documents. When they refused, they were taken to court without access to proper legal representation,” Saidov said.
The lawyer also highlighted recurring issues of limited access to attorneys and alleged undue pressure on detainees. “Such practices violate both national laws and international norms,” he added.
Legal basis
Saidov pointed to Article 271 of Uzbekistan’s Administrative Responsibility Code, which prohibits proceedings if the administrative offense did not occur. He also noted Uzbekistan’s international commitments under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR).
“Arbitrary detention and holding innocent individuals under administrative arrest while violating their basic rights constitutes a form of pressure. These actions should be considered under Article 7 of the ICCPR, which prohibits torture and inhumane or degrading treatment or punishment,” Saidov explained.
Requests and complaints
Saidov said he has filed a motion to summon the district police officer who drafted the administrative offense protocols to explain his actions in court. The defense has also submitted complaints to the Prosecutor General’s Office, requesting a review of the conduct of law enforcement officers.
“We demand a legal assessment not only of the protocol drafting process but also of the broader practices that involve undue pressure on citizens and disregard for their constitutional rights,” the attorney emphasized.
Systemic shortcomings
Saidov pointed out systemic issues, particularly restricted access for attorneys to meet with their clients:
“Uzbekistan’s Constitution now includes a chapter dedicated to the legal profession, which is a significant achievement. However, it is time to ensure these constitutional norms are fully implemented. Attorneys must be able to defend their clients without obstacles,” he said.
The lawyer added that lack of access to clients and violations of the right to a fair trial, compounded by administrative pressure, contribute to arbitrary practices.
“When attorneys are denied access to their clients, it paves the way for the types of violations we have seen in this case. The detention of my clients under administrative arrest contravenes both national laws and Uzbekistan’s international obligations,” Saidov stated.
Next hearing
The Supreme Court has scheduled the next hearing for January 23, 2025, at 11:00 a.m.
Saidov expressed hope that the court would thoroughly examine the case and address the procedural violations.
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