Court orders retraction and compensation for “Ozodlik” Radio in defamation case in Uzbekistan
A recent investigation by the Uzbek editorial team of “Ozodlik” Radio has stirred controversy, with allegations against Ultimo Group Limited and its involvement in “gas profiteering.” The director of Ultimo Group Limited, Tukhtakhoja Anvarkhojaev, has taken legal action in response to these claims, leading to a court case where the truth behind the allegations was unveiled.
Entrepreneur Tukhtakhoja Anvarkhojaev, who holds a 50% stake in Ultimo Group Limited LLC, filed a lawsuit against “Ozodlik” Radio and journalist Lazizkhon Olimov (Aziz Nur) in April 2024. The case was brought before the Shaykhontokhur Interdistrict Civil Court, where it was revealed that Ultimo Group Limited had sold Turkmen gas to “Qizilqumsement” utilizing the infrastructure of “Uztransgaz” JSC for delivery, under a transportation contract.
During the court proceedings, it was emphasized that “Uztransgaz” is a natural monopoly entity, and transportation tariffs are approved by the Intergovernmental Tariff Commission. The shortage of gas during the autumn-winter season of 2021 was attributed to the increased industrial activity and construction volumes in recent years, impacting cement plants like “Qizilqumsement.”
Experts and linguists also analyzed the language used in the investigation report, highlighting the negative impact on Ultimo Group Limited’s business reputation and the founder’s honor and dignity. As a result, the court ruled in favor of Ultimo Group Limited, ordering “Ozodlik” Radio to issue a retraction and pay 100 million UZS in compensation for moral damages.
Ultimo Group Limited, established in 2021, had signed a significant contract with “Qizilqumsement,” emphasizing the importance of accurate reporting and maintaining the integrity of businesses in the region. This case serves as a reminder of the consequences of false allegations and the importance of factual, unbiased journalism.
