The authoritarian president of Turkmenistan is set to sail to victory in Sunday's election where eight other candidates are on the ballot, but all praise his polices. Some of Niyazov's more notoriously odd initiatives, such as banning opera and gold teeth, also were rolled back. Later, the president was shown strumming the same guitar — now properly tuned — and performing a song of his own composition as workers clapped along. Until a few years ago, Turkmenistan could count on selling gas to China, Russia and Iran. Although tight visa procedures make it difficult for outsiders to visit, Turkmenistan has built an elaborate resort complex on the Caspian Sea.

Source: ABC News February 11, 2017 11:26 UTC