Karimov Enters the Ring

Everyone assumed that Uzbekistan's President Islam Karimov would still be in charge a year from now despite formally being term-limited out of office. The only question is how he would go about holding on. Now we know:

" On November 6 Uzbekistan’s President Islam Karimov announced his decision to enter the upcoming presidential elections on December 23. Karimov’s choice to seek another term provides a short-term solution to the fears of potentially ruthless competition for state power among local politicians and business elites. Almost certainly Karimov will be returned to office for another seven years, and, at age 69, his health may enable him to hold on to power for even longer...

"A number of regional media outlets have harshly criticized Karimov’s 'agreement to remain president for yet another seven years.' However, some local and international experts agree that changing leadership in Uzbekistan this year could lead to a prolonged, severe struggle among current political elites and the secular and religious opposition. But if Karimov and his government fail to generate a solution in the next few years for a peaceful transfer of power, escalating tensions and even armed clashes are likely."

This "peaceful transfer of power" itself will, I'm sure, not be democratic. Why do people even get excited with these speculations?