DUSHANBE, May 14, 2014, Asia-Plus -- On Wednesday May 14, the Majlisi Namoyandagon (Tajikistan’s lower chamber of parliament) confirmed president’s edict on appointment of Zarif Alizoda as the Ombudsman of Tajikistan.

The institution of Tajik ombudsman was established in 2009, although the idea of establishing such an institution was initially discussed in early 2000.

According to the law, the institution of Tajik ombudsman was established to annually produce reports about the human rights situation in the country, identify global problems and present them to the Tajik president, parliament, and other state bodies.

The ombudsman is responsible for improving the Tajik human rights legislation.  According to the law, the ombudsman should be independent and non-accountable to any state body, local administration, or public official. The ombudsman is appointed by the president and endorsed by the parliament.

Zarif Alizoda is the first Human Rights Ombudsman of Tajikistan.  He was appointed by President Emomali Rahmon and approved by the Tajik Parliament in May 2009.