DUSHANBE, February 8, 2011, Asia-Plus  -- The Democratic Party (DPT) leader Masoud Sobirov considers that an attack on Hikmatullo Sayfullozoda, a leading figure in the Islamic Revival Party (IRP), is not connected with his political activities.

“Most likely, the attack is based on any private scores.  Sayfullozoda is not the figure that could change state of affairs in the political life of the country,” Sobirov told Asia-Plus in an interview.  “It is useless for political opponents of the IRP to intimidate Sayfullozoda or make an attempt on his life.  Besides, he has not stated anything serious recently.”

Probably somebody has settled private scores, Sobirov noted.  “We are friends and companion much, of course,” said the DPT leader, “But Sayfullozoda is a hot-tempered person and cannot control himself sometimes.  Not everybody can bear this.  I have firsthand knowledge of his temper.”

We will recall that Hikmatullo Sayfullozoda was hospitalized Monday morning after being severely beaten up on his way to work.  He suffered a blow to the skull and severe bruising around his eyes and mouth.  Sayfullozoda is being treated at the National Medical Center in a Dushanbe.

Hikmatullo Sayfullozoda is member of the IRP board, editor-in-chief of the IRP’s official newspaper, Najot , and a political analyst with the Dushanbe think tank, Dialog.