With sincere congratulations and deep respect, we wish you a joyful and blessed birthday. May every moment of your life be filled with health, spiritual strength, and abundance. We pray that Allah frees you from unjust captivity and brings you back to your family in perfect health.
Maksud Ibrogimov chose his path during difficult times, facing intense social pressures as the people of Tajikistan suffered under the continued autocratic and corrupt rule of Emomali Rahmon. He founded the organization “Tajik Youth for the Revival of Tajikistan” and, in close collaboration with “Group 24” under the leadership of Umarali Kuvvatov, began the struggle against the Rahmon regime. The main goal of Ibrogimov and his organization was to defend the rights of labor migrants and Tajik citizens — not only to improve their living conditions but also to protect human rights and social justice that were being violated under the autocratic government.
Ibrogimov dreamed of restoring justice, eradicating corruption, safeguarding citizens’ rights in Tajikistan, and establishing a democratic and free state that would reduce forced migration. He firmly believed that the government should treat its people with sincerity and create favorable living conditions for youth, migrants, and Tajik families. For this reason, Ibrogimov organized political activities, rallies, and meetings in cities across Russia, aiming to unite Tajik migrants and encourage mutual support in the fight for justice.
In order to draw the attention of the international community and Tajik migrants to the dire situation in Tajikistan, Ibrogimov and other members of the organization held rallies in Russian cities, including Moscow, Saint Petersburg, Samara, Yekaterinburg, Novosibirsk, and Kemerovo. In these meetings with Tajik migrants, who were suffering from labor issues and social inequalities, they spoke about the organization’s goals and the paths to freedom and justice.
Despite the organization’s efforts to register in Russia, their request was denied due to the pressures from the Tajik government, which sought to prevent opposition activities and criticisms abroad. The authorities of Tajikistan attempted through various means to silence Ibrogimov and other activists, escalating their efforts to the point of persecution and pressure. Ultimately, this led to an assassination attempt on Ibrogimov, and his abduction from Russia, followed by his 17-year prison sentence in Tajikistan.
Despite all of this, Ibrogimov remains a symbol of resistance and the fight for justice and freedom for the members of his organization and the youth of Tajikistan. His inspiring words to the youth, “It is easy to break one person, but our unity—our victory,” encouraged migrants to unite and fight for freedom.
His struggle for intellectual and social independence in Tajikistan remains an inspiring example for the young generation and migrants today. Despite the continued pressures, the members of the organization and other opposition activists are determined to continue his path and strive for the democratic transformation of Tajikistan.
Happy Birthday, Maksud Ibrogimov!
With respect,
Tajik Youth for the Revival of Tajikistan
