DUSHANBE, February 3, 2015, Asia-Plus – President Emomali Rahmon has introduced a number of staff changes.

According to the Tajik president’s official website, Nematullo Hikmatullozoda, formerly First Deputy Minister of Economic Development and Trade, was appointed Minister of Economic Development and Trade, replacing Sharif Rahimzoda.

Sherali Ganjalzoda, who had previously served as First Deputy Minister of Transport, was appointed Minister of Transport, replacing Khairullo Asozoda.

We will recall that Sharif Rahimzoda and Khairullo Asozoda have been nominated to run for election to the lower house (Majlisi Namoyandagon) of the parliament (Majlisi Oli).

Rahmon also replaced a number of regional administrators in Sughd and Khatlon provinces.  Khairullo Amonullo was appointed acting mayor of Kulob (Khatlon province), Naim Nabizoda was appointed mayor of Istaravshan (Sughd province), Umar Yoqubzoda was appointed chairperson of the Shahriston district (Sughd province), Rustamboy Jourayev was appointed chairperson of the Ghonchi district (Sughd province), and Islom Shafiyev was appointed mayor of Panjakent (Sughd province).

Besides, Poulod Safarzoda was appointed head of department – chief accountant of President’s Executive Office, the source said.