Namangan Deputy Governor Receives 7.5-Year Sentence for Embezzlement and Fraud
Former Deputy Governor of Namangan Region Found Guilty of Fraud and Embezzlement
Saidakhmad Sultanov, who previously served as the Deputy Governor of Namangan region overseeing construction projects, has been convicted of fraud and embezzlement of significant amounts of budget funds. The court ruling against Sultanov, as reported by Kun.uz, reveals a pattern of corruption and misuse of power during his time in office.
Among the numerous charges brought against Sultanov, one of the most prominent cases involves his involvement in a scheme to siphon money from entrepreneurs meant for sponsorship of the “Navbahor” football club. Sultanov allegedly instructed a company head to collect funds from other business owners under the pretense of supporting the club, only to divert the money for personal gain.
Furthermore, Sultanov was found to have bypassed proper procedures and awarded construction projects to specific companies without conducting competitive tender processes or formalizing project documentation. By colluding with the heads of these companies, Sultanov facilitated the embezzlement of nearly 15.5 billion UZS in budget funds through falsified project reports.
In addition, Sultanov was found to have misused government vehicles for personal purposes, causing significant financial losses to state interests. Despite being assigned a specific vehicle, Sultanov utilized a different car belonging to the construction department for official and personal errands, resulting in substantial gasoline expenses at the expense of public funds.
As a result of his actions, the court has sentenced Saidakhmad Sultanov to 7 years and 6 months in prison, with a 3-year ban on holding managerial or financial positions in organizations with state involvement. Sultanov’s conviction encompasses charges of embezzlement, fraud, and abuse of power under the Criminal Code.
Sultanov, who was appointed as Deputy Governor in 2020, was placed under arrest in December 2023 following the court’s ruling. His case serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of corruption and misuse of public resources, emphasizing the need for transparent and accountable governance in the region.
