DUSHANBE, March 12, 2010, Asia-Plus – Tajik President Emomali Rahmon has appointed veteran economist Matlubkhon Davlatov to head the presidential office, RFE/RL''s Tajik Service reported on March 11.

Davlatov, 60, had taught economics at Tajik State University and then from 1991-2001 chaired the State Property Committee. He was later named head of the State Committee on State Spending and Finances, and in 2006 he was appointed a state adviser on economic affairs.

Tajik journalist Saymuddin Dustov told RFE/RL that Rahmon was likely seeking an experienced and loyal individual who could work professionally with different political and economic groups to ensure that presidential orders are implemented. Dustov said Davlatov would appear to fit that description.

But opposition politician Amniyat Abdulnazar suggested to RFE/RL that the main reason behind the appointment was not Davlatov''s professionalism but the fact that he is thought to be Rahmon''s uncle or otherwise related.

Former presidential office head Amirsho Miraliyev stepped down after winning election to the lower chamber of the Tajik parliament on February 28.