Description
As Uzbekistan approaches a constitutional referendum, residents of the capital Tashkent share their expectations for a vote that could extend the rule of Uzbekistan's autocratic leader Shavkat Mirziyoyev until 2040. Medicine student Nargiza says she is convinced her vote could help "solve big problems," while fellow resident Fayzulla warns that "positive results will be reached" only "if changes will be made in the judicial system." President Mirziyoyev has introduced some reforms after decades of dictatorial rule under former leader Islam Karimov but is still criticised for his rights record. IMAGES AND SOUNDBITES