This is a step that sets the stage for a political dynasty within the gas-rich Central Asian republic.
The 64-year-old President Gurbanguly Berdymukhamedov announced Saturday’s vote, saying that he was ready to hand over power to a new generation. This statement seemed to suggest that his son Serdar, 40, would be his successor.
Turkmenistan’s state TV reported Monday on the nomination of Serdar by the Democratic Party as a candidate for the election. He rose through the ranks to become the Cabinet’s deputy chairman.
The March 12 vote is planned.
In post-Soviet Turkmenistan, no election has ever been considered to be truly competitive. In 2017, eight candidates ran against Berdymukhamedov. However, all of them supported his government. Berdymukhamedov won more than 97%.
After the death of eccentric Saparmurat Niyazov in 2006, Berdymukhamedov was elected to power. He established a personality cult that is similar to his predecessors. It has been difficult for outsiders into the country under his rule. Turkmenistan has not reported any cases in the coronavirus pandemic.
It has also struggled to diversify its economy which is heavily dependent on its huge natural gas reserves.
Berdymukhamedov creates an image of strong and aggressive health through media stunts, including firing a gun at a man-sized target on a bicycle while lifting a weightlifting bar and riding a bike. To the applause and approval of his Cabinet.
