Citizens of Turkmenabad Defended Their Rights: Public Outcry Forced Authorities to Reverse Bus Fare Increase

The Human Rights Platform of the Civic Movement “DAYANÇ / Turkmenistan” views the recent events in Turkmenabad as a historic moment for civil society in Turkmenistan. On January 29, 2026, bus fares in the city were abruptly doubled — from 0.50 to 1 manat on state-operated routes and from 1 to 2 manats on private buses. However, by the following morning, authorities were forced to restore the previous prices. According to available information, it was public dissatisfaction and citizens’ reactions that played a decisive role in reversing the decision. This represents a rare but extremely important precedent: for one of the first times in recent years, social pressure resulted in a concrete change in government policy. This case clearly proves that: citizens have the right to speak out against injustice silence protects no one — active civic engagement does public institutions must serve the people, not burden them authorities must base their decisions on the needs and voices of society The fare increase occurred amid rising living costs and the absence of wage, pension, and social benefit indexation, which made the decision particularly unjust for ordinary people. The response of the residents of Turkmenabad shows that civic solidarity works. These events are not merely about transportation costs. They mark an important step toward the formation of a civic society where people begin to realize their rights and the responsibility of the state toward its citizens. The Human Rights Platform “DAYANÇ / Turkmenistan” calls on all citizens to: speak out about rights violations defend their social and economic rights support one another remember that authorities are obligated to serve the public The experience of Turkmenabad proves that change is possible — even under difficult circumstances. When citizens raise their voices, power is forced to listen.