Kyrgyzstan Called to Dismiss Charges Against Journalists Before Sentencing

Amnesty International has called on Kyrgyzstan to dismiss politically motivated charges against independent journalists from Temirov LIVE and Ayt Ayt Dese, who face up to six years in prison, Jurist News reported yesterday.

Denis Krivosheev, Amnesty’s acting director for Eastern Europe and Central Asia, emphasized the need for authorities to release those detained and allow independent media to operate freely.

The journalists were arrested during house raids on January 16, accused of inciting mass riots and violence under Article 278 of the Kyrgyz Criminal Code. Four remain in pretrial detention, while others are under house arrest. The charges reportedly stem from their investigations into government corruption.

Concerns have also been raised about proposed amendments to the Criminal Code that could criminalize the possession of “extremist” materials, further threatening freedom of expression in the country. International organizations continue to advocate for the protection of dissenting voices in Kyrgyzstan.