The Anti-Corruption Agency of Uzbekistan (Anticor) has sent a request to the government with an initiative to consider disciplinary action against the Minister of Culture Ozodbek Nazarbekov. The reason for the appeal was a video in which the minister performs songs at a wedding and accepts money from guests, as reported by "Gazeta.uz".
The recording quickly spread on social media, sparking active discussion among users. The footage shows Nazarbekov singing at the celebration while receiving bills from guests. Public opinion was divided: some recalled his artistic past, while others pointed out the unacceptability of such behavior for a minister.
According to available information, the wedding took place for the son of the famous artist Yahybek Muminov, and many prominent figures from the art world were present. The press service of the Ministry of Culture clarified that the video was filmed on October 25, 2025, at the wedding ceremony of a ministry employee.
The Ministry of Culture explained that Nazarbekov did not foresee his performance and that refusing to fulfill the request could have been perceived as neglect. The agency also noted that receiving money from spectators does not contradict current legislation and is part of cultural traditions.
Furthermore, the official comment emphasizes that such events in Uzbek traditions are perceived as "orzu-havas" (lavish, desired celebrations), and Nazarbekov is a people's artist of several Central Asian countries. Therefore, many experts suggested considering this incident as part of his professional activity.
However, Anticor took a stricter stance, stating that there was a violation of the law. The agency pointed to Article 13 of the Law on State Civil Service and the Standard Rules of Ethics, which prohibit civil servants from engaging in paid activities, except for scientific, pedagogical, and creative work. At the same time, they must avoid actions that could undermine the authority of the government. Officials are required to take measures to avoid criticism.
Anticor requested government measures to hold the minister accountable for disciplinary action, including issuing a strict warning about the need to comply with the law. The agency added that the behavior of civil servants that contradicts ethical norms will be under constant scrutiny.
This is not the first time Nazarbekov's actions have raised questions. In 2024, he appeared in an advertisement for a clothing store, which led to a fine for entrepreneurs from the competition committee. In August 2025, the minister appeared in a video promoting enrollment in one of the private universities. The Ministry of Culture commented on both cases, stating that Nazarbekov's actions were not aimed at generating income.
