Serdar Berdimuhamedov

What was the state of the Turkmen economy during Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov’s presidency?

Mere weeks after reappointing his father’s cabinet, the younger Berdimuhamedov has begun to make some personnel changes.

There’s a new Berdimuhamedov at the helm in Turkmenistan. What will the “son of the nation” do with the presidency?

Although all indications are that Serdar intends to follow in his father’s footsteps, Turkmenistan is politically entering uncharted waters.

Will a change in president mean a change in leadership? And even if so, can that change in leadership measurably affect the challenges Turkmenistan faces?

It may turn out that Serdar is just like his father, and nothing will change in Turkmenistan. But new opportunities for engagement amid leadership change are worth exploring.

President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov did not explicitly state he would step down, but the implication seemed clear when he called for early elections and said it was time to open the way for "young leaders."

As the Turkmen president’s son continues his tour of top government positions, digitalization remains a critical priority for the regime. 

Serdar Berdimuhamedov will be joining the Cabinet of Ministers, another step on the road to a dynasty. 

Given Serdar’s trajectory, it’s hard not to believe he’s heading for the presidency once day.

Turkmenistan plans to to build a $1.5-billion city amid spending cuts.