Khorezm regional prosecutor Murodjon Akhmedov has once again sparked controversy with remarks about Effect.uz correspondent Muhammadali Kazakov made in a public place.

Referring to the microphone in the journalist's hand, the prosecutor said in effect that 'those with such microphones should not come to receptions,' attempting to belittle him. Notably, this is not the first controversial incident related to the prosecutor's attitude toward Effect.uz and its journalists.

Earlier, Murodjon Akhmedov had already argued with Effect.uz head Akmal Eshonkhonov. At that time, the prosecutor addressed Eshonkhonov as 'bro' and asked him a question along the lines of 'are you a lawyer?' regarding a citizen's appeal.

Eshonkhonov, in turn, stressed to the prosecutor that laws must work equally for everyone, noting that ensuring enforcement of a court decision that has entered into legal force is more important than arguing.

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev has repeatedly supported the lawful, impartial, and fair activity of media representatives, emphasizing that creating conditions for journalists to work freely is one of the important directions of state policy.

In particular, at a February 2023 meeting with activists of the Kashkadarya region, the head of state said that the policy of openness and transparency in the country is irreversible.

From this perspective, it is only natural that the Khorezm regional prosecutor's attitude toward journalists — 'those with microphones should not come to receptions' — raises questions among the public.

'Everyone says: shut [the media] down. No, I won't shut them down. Should it be like before — a prosecutor, an SNB (SSS) inspector? Have we achieved our goal? Have we become more? That is why we need to breathe freedom and consider the mass media as friends,' the President said.