Magomed Daudov, a close ally of Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov, has announced his resignation as the speaker of the North Caucasus republic’s legislative assembly. Daudov, who held the position for nearly nine years, did not provide specific details about his decision but stated that it came after consulting with Kadyrov. This abrupt departure comes amidst reports of Kadyrov’s potentially fatal illness, which have been circulating for over five years. Additionally, it coincides with a period of government shakeup in Russia as President Vladimir Putin begins his fifth term in office.
Daudov, considered Kadyrov’s right-hand man, had a complex history as he initially fought on the side of rebels during the Chechen wars but later switched sides after receiving promises of pardon from then-leader Akhmat Kadyrov. Last month, Kadyrov promoted Daudov to the rank of major-general, recognizing his loyalty and contributions. Despite his accolades, Daudov has faced criticism from human rights organizations such as Human Rights Watch for his alleged involvement in overseeing the torture of young men during the “gay purges” in Chechnya in 2017. The United Kingdom also imposed a travel ban and asset freeze against Daudov in 2020 for violations of human rights.
The unexpected resignation of Magomed Daudov raises questions about the future leadership and direction of Chechnya, especially in the absence of his close ties to Kadyrov. As Kadyrov has faced long-standing health concerns and reports of serious illness, the political landscape in Chechnya may undergo significant changes in the coming months. It remains unclear who will succeed Daudov as the speaker of the Chechen Parliament and what implications his departure will have on the region’s governance and stability. The relationship between Kadyrov and his inner circle of loyalists, including Daudov, has been crucial in maintaining control over Chechnya.
The resignation of Magomed Daudov also highlights the broader issues of human rights violations and political repression in Chechnya under Kadyrov’s regime. The allegations of torture and abuse, particularly against marginalized groups like the LGBTQ community, have drawn international condemnation and sanctions against key figures like Daudov. With the spotlight on Chechnya’s governance and Kadyrov’s health, there is a renewed focus on the need for accountability and transparency in the region. The departure of Daudov could signal a potential shift in how Chechnya is governed and how human rights abuses are addressed.
As Chechnya faces an uncertain future with the departure of Magomed Daudov and concerns over Kadyrov’s health, experts weigh in on the potential implications for the region. The power dynamics within Chechnya’s leadership structure and the influence of key figures like Daudov play a crucial role in shaping the political landscape. The international community will be closely monitoring developments in Chechnya, especially in light of human rights abuses and reports of political instability. The resignation of Daudov marks a significant moment in Chechen politics and raises questions about the path forward for the troubled region.
