The political movement “Group 24” sincerely congratulates all the people of Tajikistan and our compatriots living abroad on September 9 — the Independence Day of the Republic of Tajikistan!
We wish our dear people peace and stability, dignity and a decent life, and we wish our beloved Tajikistan freedom, prosperity, and progress. May the day come when every citizen of Tajikistan can live freely in their homeland and fully enjoy genuine rights and freedoms.
Independence does not belong to one person, one government, or one family — independence is the achievement and rightful heritage of the people of Tajikistan!
On September 9, 1991, Tajikistan was proclaimed an independent state. On the path toward this historic day, many devoted sons of the country made great sacrifices in the struggle for independence, national self-awareness, and democracy.
Among them, Tohir Abdujabbor holds an important place. He was one of the leading figures of the national democratic movement and, as early as 1990, submitted a draft proposal for Tajikistan’s independence to the Supreme Soviet.
Qadriddin Aslonov served as Chairman of the Supreme Soviet and Acting President during the decisive days of 1991. It was during his leadership that, on September 9, 1991, the Supreme Soviet adopted the documents establishing Tajikistan’s independence.
But where was Rahmonov at that time?
When Tajikistan declared its independence in 1991, Rahmonov was not the head of state. He was a deputy of the Supreme Soviet and the head of the Lenin State Farm (sovkhoz) in Danghara District.
Rahmonov was elected Chairman of the Supreme Soviet only on November 19, 1992 — more than a year after Tajikistan had declared its independence.
In other words, Tajikistan had already become an independent state before Rahmonov came to power.
History must not be rewritten for the sake of a personality cult. The names of Tohir Abdujabbor, Qadriddin Aslonov, and other sons of the country who struggled for independence, freedom, and democracy must remain alive in the nation’s historical memory.
Independence does not belong to one person!
Independence does not belong to one family!
Independence belongs to the people!
Happy September 9, dear compatriots!
Long live a free and independent Tajikistan!
Political Movement “Group 24”
