THAT'S IT

Dzhizak Khokim [Governor] Ubaidulla Yamankulov made an unprecedented evaluation of the Andizhan events at a conference with local khokims and farmers on May 18.

"Do not even think of following suit. It was not a people's revolt, only criminals operated there. If the people of Andizhan joined these terrorists, than I'm telling you right here and now that they betrayed their Motherland and the president. They forgot who the boss was."

Yamankulov urged local farmers (most of them herded to the conference by the police) not to trust foreign media outlets which he branded as provocateurs.

The khokim said that he knew of distemper in the region and that the most impoverished of farmers were openly speaking in favor of the Andizhan rebels.

"Should it happen, I will personally take all necessary measures to restore order," Yamankulov said. "You must support the president and respect his point of view. We have men watching every one of you. You are under control."

Farmers were then shown a film of Islam Karimov's press conference with local and foreign correspondents.

A farmer from the Bakhmal district of the region who was present at the conference told Ferghana.Ru that they had been told at first that Yamankulov intended to discuss critical situation on cotton plantations.

"Five minutes into this dressing down we already knew that this was ordinary brainwashing," the farmer said.

Andrei Nazarov, Muhamad Ashurali ogly for Ferghana.Ru news agency