Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in Ufa to participate in the farewell ceremony honoring Murtaza Rakhimov, the first President of Bashkortostan. The visit underscored the enduring significance of Rakhimov’s leadership in the region’s modern history, as officials and citizens gathered to pay tribute to a figure who helped shape Bashkiria’s political landscape. The moment carried symbolic weight for the republic, reflecting a long memory of leadership that guided the region through pivotal changes at the close of the Soviet era and into the early years of the federation.
Rakhimov, who passed away after a prolonged illness, was 88 years old. The regional government confirmed the news, noting that his health had deteriorated in the months leading to the death. The announcement prompted public remembrances across Bashkortostan, with many residents recalling his role in steering the republic during a time of transition and consolidation of regional institutions. His leadership trajectory spanned the late Soviet years and the early years of the Russian federation, marking him as a central figure in the political development of Bashkiria.
During his public service, Rakhimov held the position of chairman of the Supreme Soviet of the Bashkir SSR from 1990 until December 24, 1993. He then served as the president of Bashkortostan from December 1993 to July 15, 2010, guiding the republic through constitutional changes, economic transitions, and the ongoing process of regional governance within Russia. After stepping down from the presidency, he continued to influence public life by taking on a leadership role as chairman of the board of the Ural Charitable Foundation starting October 22, 2010. This phase of his career highlighted his ongoing commitment to social welfare and philanthropic activities that aimed to support communities across the region.
In the years following his tenure as president, the memory of Rakhimov remained a touchstone for many. While new leadership emerged at the national level, Bashkiria’s citizens retained a sense of continuity and respect for a figure who had been at the helm during transformative moments. Reports and public accounts indicated that his final wishes were centered on the well-being and prosperity of Bashkiria, reflecting a deep concern for the region’s future. The farewell ceremonies and public reflections that followed illustrated how Rakhimov’s legacy lived on in the collective memory of residents and in the ongoing discussions about the region’s path forward. In that sense, his influence extended beyond the years of his presidency, shaping how the republic views its history and its responsibilities today, while the people of Bashkortostan celebrated the long service he rendered to the state and its communities.