DUSHANBE, September 26, 2011, Asia-Plus -- Addressing the congress of the Islamic Revival Party of Tajikistan (IRP) in Dushanbe, Russian known journalist Maxim Shevchenko, who is also member of the Public Chamber of Russia, on September 24 called on the IRP to protect rights of Tajik citizens in Russia and fight racists, Zionists, drug mafia and high-ranking officials who are shielding “these actions of Shaitan (Satan).”

“I consider that Russia is closely connected with Central Asia, especially with Tajikistan.  A great number of Tajiks are currently living and working in Russia and their living conditions are far from being normal,” said Mr. Shevchenko.  “Officials, bureaucracy and other high-ranking functionaries are not able to change the situation for the better and no decree and orders will have an effect in this case.  Other actions are needed.”

He said he had arrived in Dushanbe on IRP’s invitation, “…it is the only political parties that invited me for talk, as well as on this important subject.”

“If leading political parties of Tajikistan, including the IRP, do not undertake to protect rights of Tajik nationals in the Russian Federation, there will be nobody to protect their rights,” said the Russian journalist.  “These rights are violated and humiliated by the criminal capital, police and media, rude and impertinent statements made by journalists who adhere to racist and Zionist ideas.  We, public figures of the Russian Federation standing for international solidarity and protection of civil rights, need reliable and good partners, as well as in Tajikistan.  I think the Islamic Revival Party will think over this proposal.  This party must become political partner inside Tajikistan in terms of organization of normal, legal conditions of life and work of Tajik nationals in Russia.”

Besides, the member of the Public Chamber of Russia called for cooperation in combating drug trafficking.  According to him, this problem exists because it is supported by large oligarchic and capitalist structures.

“It would be impossible to transport narcotics without their participation.  “I think that no one there but Muslims are able to stand in the way of drug trafficking,” stressed Shevchenko.  “Therefore, Muslims of Tajikistan, the Islamic Revival Party must state their principal fight against drug trafficking so loudly as to be heard in Russia, and I will help.  Believe me, you will meet with support of patriotic organizations of the Russian Federation.”

The Public Chamber of Russia is a state institution with 126 members created in 2005 in Russia to analyze draft legislation and monitor the activities of the parliament, government and other government bodies of Russia and its Federal Subjects. It has a role similar to an oversight committee and has consultative powers.   A convocation of the chamber is in power for a two-year term.