Mongolia: Prime Minister dismissed by parliament September 7

Event

On Thursday, September 7, Mongolian lawmakers voted to dismiss Prime Minister Jargaltulga Erdenebat following allegations of corruption. Prime Minister Edenebat reportedly gave government contracts to companies with close ties to members of his cabinet. Erdenebat was removed from office after 33 members of his Mongolian People's Party (MPP) voted in favor of his dismissal. The MPP currently holds 65 of 76 seats in parliament. 

Context

Rapid political turnover is not unusual in Mongolia. The country has seen 13 different governments over the past 25 years, with only two finishing the full four-year terms.

The dismissal of the Prime Minister could create greater political and economic instability. The Mongolian public is highly dissatisfied with the legal system and is demanding economic stability, employment opportunities, and healthy air quality. Mongolia is currently facing a spiraling debt burden worth USD 23 billion and is subject to a controversial IMF-led bailout program to ease the country's financial pressures. In 2016, the financial deficit reached 20 percent.

Advice

Individuals present in Mongolia are advised to avoid any protests as a precaution.