The document approved a law “On election of chairpersons (aksakals) of citizens’ gatherings and their advisors” in new edition.

Legislative Chamber of Oliy Majlis passed the law on 15 March 2013 and the Senate approved it on 28 March 2013. The law came into force on 24 April 2013.

The law consists of five chapters and 33 articles. The document is directed at further improving system of election of self-governing bodies, which should ensure election of worthy chairpersons of self-governing bodies and their advisors. It will also ensure openness and transparency o selection of chairpersons of self-governing bodies and their advisors.

In particular, the law says that candidates should have higher education and lived in Uzbekistan for last five years. He should have work experience in public organization or business.

The law sets additional requirements to candidates to the post of chairpersons of self-governing bodies and their advisors, including presentation of their future programmes.

People, who was found incompetent by a court or jailed, or committee crimes cannot be nominated to become chairperson of the mahallas. Officials of religious organizations may not be elected to the position of aksakals.

The law expands authorities of Senate of Oliy Majlis in organizing and conducting of elections of chairpersons of self-governing bodies and their advisors. In particular, Council of Senate set date of elections of the chairpersons of self-governing bodies and their advisors.