Islom Karimov

Islom Karimov was the first President of Uzbekistan, serving from 1990 until his death in 2016. He was a key figure in Uzbekistan’s independence after the Soviet Union collapsed, leading the country through its early years as a sovereign state. Known for maintaining strict control over political life, his leadership was often characterized by centralized authority and limited political freedoms. Despite criticisms, he focused on stabilizing Uzbekistan’s economy and promoting national identity. His presidency significantly shaped the country's post-Soviet development, leaving a lasting impact on its political and social landscape.