Mongolia’s Prime Minister Ousted Amid Internal Party Conflict

Mongolia’s parliament has voted to dismiss Prime Minister Zandanshatar Gombojav following a public power struggle within the ruling Mongolian People’s Party. The vote, which took place on March 15, 2024, underlined the tensions that have emerged since Gombojav’s leadership began just four months ago. Opponents within the party managed to pass a resolution that effectively removed him from office.

The political turmoil comes at a challenging time for the government. With the budget for the upcoming year still pending approval, protests have erupted. Teachers demanding salary increases have already gone on strike, while medical doctors are also threatening to follow suit if their concerns are not addressed.

The rift within the ruling party intensified after Gombojav lost a leadership election to Amarbayasgalan Dashzegve, his chief rival. Supporters of the prime minister subsequently accused Dashzegve of corruption related to the coal mining industry, prompting a government investigation. Gombojav emphasized the fight against corruption, stating, “We are fighting against the theft of the nation’s wealth that has robbed every Mongolian, and we are working to increase the salaries of teachers and doctors,” during a parliamentary debate prior to the vote.

The parliamentary proceedings were notably contentious. On March 14, 2024, Dashzegve requested to resign from his position as chair of parliament, citing a desire to restore his honor and uphold parliamentary democracy. He criticized what he referred to as the “obsession for power” among those who lost the election, claiming their actions were unlawfully influencing law enforcement agencies and violating the Constitution.

The vote on Gombojav’s removal came despite a parliamentary committee’s earlier decision against dismissal. Lawmakers who abstained from voting were counted as “no” votes, leading to a clear majority in favor of his ousting. Additionally, some of the prime minister’s supporters boycotted the parliamentary session, contributing to a delay in the vote.

As Mongolia navigates this political upheaval, the implications for governance and public service remain significant. The new leadership will need to address pressing issues, including the ongoing demands from educators and healthcare professionals, while also stabilizing a party divided by internal conflict. The future of Mongolia’s political landscape hangs in the balance as Gombojav remains in office until a successor is appointed.