Tajik prosecutor-general says Baljuvon prosecutor’s dismissal unrelated to arson

Tajikistan's Prosecutor General Habibullo Vohidzoda clarified that the dismissal of former Baljuvon district prosecutor Murod Muqimzoda was due to internal regulation violations, not an attempted arson attack on his residence. Speaking at a press conference in Dushanbe on July 22, Vohidzoda stated that an internal investigation following the incident revealed further breaches in Muqimzoda's work.

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If employees of the prosecutor’s office fail to comply with internal regulations, they are removed from their posts and dismissed from the prosecutorial bodies.

"If employees of the prosecutor’s office fail to comply with internal regulations, they are removed from their posts and dismissed from the prosecutorial bodies," Vohidzoda explained. He emphasized that internal documents govern every aspect of a prosecutor's conduct, regardless of location. The investigation into the arson attempt uncovered additional violations, leading to the dismissal.

The prosecutor-general attributed the arson attempt to a personal dispute involving Begmad Burhonov, a local resident previously convicted of illegal logging. Burhonov allegedly sought revenge against the head of the local forestry department. The suspect set fire to a doormat near the house entrance, but the flames were quickly extinguished by residents. Criminal proceedings are underway, and Burhonov is in custody. The specific charges were not disclosed.

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We have internal documents regulating every step, action and even statement made by a prosecutor, regardless of where they are. Following the incident, the investigation uncovered additional violations in the work of the Baljuvon district prosecutor, which is why the decision was made to dismiss him.

Radio Liberty's Tajik Service, known locally as Radio Ozodi, had initially reported the attempted arson on May 20. Subsequent reports indicated eight residents were detained. Muqimzoda, 44, was appointed prosecutor in 2025 and has remained silent on the matter. The article also noted previous dismissals of prosecutors for similar regulatory violations, including cases involving President Emomali Rahmon's criticism of regional prosecutors.

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We have internal documents regulating every step, action and even statement made by a prosecutor, regardless of where they are. Following the incident, the investigation uncovered additional violations in the work of the Baljuvon district prosecutor, which is why the decision was made to dismiss him.