Chinaz District Khokim Admits Initiative Behind 'Shameful' Banners

Chinaz District Head Takes Responsibility for Controversial Banners

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.uz) – Sherzod Salikhov, the Khokim of Chinaz district in the Tashkent region, has confirmed that the concept of erecting "Shameful mahalla" banners originated with him and was not mandated by higher-ups, as he disclosed in an interview with Daryo.

Salikhov explained that the proposal for these banners was largely theoretical. Only one banner was ever put up, solely for the purpose of filming a video for social media, after which it was promptly taken down.

"This was my initiative," the khokim asserted, clarifying that he saw this strategy as a means to spur residents into greater involvement in community improvement projects during the "Topical 40 Days" campaign.

Salikhov stressed that these signs were never intended for permanent display on any residence or within any mahalla. He clarified that the objective was not to embarrass the "mahalla seven" representatives, but rather to inspire them to collaborate and intensify their efforts.

The khokim conceded that the chosen method might have seemed unduly severe. "Perhaps it turned out a bit rude, I admit that," he stated.

According to Salikhov, district officials engaged with residents through educational outreach rather than applying pressure.

He suggested that the incident should be viewed as one of several promotional tactics.

The khokim also acknowledged that officials are fallible and offered an apology if his actions were misguided. Concurrently, he indicated his intention to persist with his current approach if he believes it to be the correct one.