Re-election of President Emomali Rahmon in Tajikistan's 2020 Presidential Election

In October 2020, Tajikistan held its presidential election, which resulted in the re-election of President Emomali Rahmon for another seven-year term. Rahmon, who has been in power since 1994, secured an overwhelming 90% of the vote. The election was characterized by a lack of genuine competition, as it was largely viewed as ceremonial. Opposition parties have historically criticized the electoral process in Tajikistan, citing concerns over fairness and transparency. In previous elections, such as those in 1999 and 2006, Rahmon also received high percentages of the vote, 98% and 79% respectively, amidst allegations of unfair practices and opposition boycotts. The political landscape in Tajikistan remains tightly controlled, with limited space for dissent and a significant concentration of power in the hands of the president. The 2020 election further solidified Rahmon's long-standing rule, raising questions about the future of democracy and political pluralism in the country.