Presidentialism, Parliamentarism and Local Networks: Reformation of the Uzbek and Kyrgyz Political Systems

Abstract

Post-Soviet Central Asian states' political systems characterized with a high level of authoritarian rule, corruption and nepotism. Kyrgyzstan, by mid 2010, reformed her political structure and accepted parliamentary system as the first country in her region. Since prevalence and the future of presidents' power in the region involve back-room negotiations amongst the existing elite from various sectors and regions we need to ask ourselves who constitute the elite and what is the basis for their political power? This article aims at exploring the dynamics of political power base by contrasting the two contexts: Kyrgyz Parliamentarian and Uzbek presidential systems.